The Cure’s Roger O’Donnell reveals battle with rare, aggressive lymphoma, urges early testing
Roger O’Donnell, the renowned keyboardist for the legendary British rock band The Cure, has disclosed that he’s been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma.
In a heartfelt series of posts on X (formerly known as Twitter) on September 1st, O’Donnell shared his ongoing battle with the disease, marking Blood Cancer Awareness Month in the UK.
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is essential to the body’s immune response. It primarily affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, and can develop in lymph nodes, the spleen, bone marrow, blood, and other organs.
The disease comes in two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with various subtypes. Treatment often includes chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and sometimes stem cell transplants.
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Reflecting on his experience, the 68-year-old musician admitted that he initially ignored the symptoms for several months. “I eventually sought medical advice, and after undergoing surgery, the biopsy results were devastating,” O’Donnell revealed.
O’Donnell, who has been a pivotal member of The Cure since 1987, recounted the events leading up to his diagnosis and the rigorous treatment that followed.
Over the past 11 months, he has undergone intensive therapy under the care of top specialists, utilizing cutting-edge immunotherapy and some of the earliest drugs developed to combat cancer.
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His treatment also included radiotherapy, a method that has been in use for a century.
Despite the severity of his condition, O’Donnell shared that his current prognosis is positive, adding a touch of humor to his announcement: “The mad axe murderer knocked on the door, but we didn’t answer.”
O’Donnell’s battle with lymphoma is a reminder of how widespread and indiscriminate this disease can be. Other celebrities have faced similar challenges.
Actor Michael C. Hall, known for his role in Dexter, battled Hodgkin lymphoma in 2010 and has since become a vocal advocate for cancer awareness.
Actress and activist Jane Fonda was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2018, while the beloved actor Gene Wilder, famous for Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 1999 and continued to work until his passing in 2016.
O’Donnell emphasized the importance of early detection, urging anyone with potential symptoms to “get tested.” He also encouraged people to reach out to those who are suffering, stating that “every single word helps.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to his medical team, friends, family, and partner, acknowledging the emotional toll his illness has taken on those close to him.