Barry Manilow has announced he has to cancel more shows, as he updated fans on his health.
The 82-year-old revealed last year that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer and would undergo surgery. He has now shared a fresh update on his recovery and touring plans.
Writing to his 127,000 Instagram followers, he said: “Hi Everyone. Barry here. Just got home from visiting the surgeon. Very depressing visit.
“I told him that I have been using the treadmill three times a day (I have) but that I still couldn't sing more than three songs in a row before I had to stop.”
“But I was sure that I would be able to do the Arena shows in a few weeks. He shook his head.”
The star continued: “He looked at me and then he looked at the floor. ‘What?’ I said. He said, ‘Barry, you won't be ready to do a 90 minute show. Your lungs aren't ready yet.
“’You're in great shape considering what you've been through, but your body isn't ready. You shouldn't do the first Arena shows. You won't make it through.’”
He continued: "Well, I had a feeling he'd say that. Deep down, I wanted to go back-but my body knew what my heart didn't want to admit: I wasn't ready."
Manilow then clarified that he’d have to reschedule shows from February 27 - March 17.
"He said I could likely do the Vegas shows at the very end of March and the second batch of Arena shows beginning in April,” the singer continued.
He reassured fans: "I'm SO, SO sorry I have to reschedule some of these first Arena shows. Again! But when I do come back, I will COME BACK!!!
"In the meantime, and once again, thank you all for your wonderful notes and phone calls of support. The doctor said that my body had been through hell and that it needed time to heal. So, I'm going back to healing. All my love and gratitude, B."
In December last year, Manilow said a cancerous spot in his lungs was discovered during an MRI scan, as he has been struggling with bronchitis. In the same health update, he said he expected to be back on the stage in February.
