ROCK star David Roach has shared a brave photo from his hospital bed after being diagnosed with a “very aggressive” form of cancer.
David, who is the lead singer of heavy metal band Junkyard, received the shock diagnosis after falling ill with a “fever and cough”.
The musician and his fiancée Jennifer say their world has been “shattered” by the news and are now fundraising to pay for his medical bills.
Jennifer has had to give up her job to become David’s full-time care-giver while he receives treatment.
In an emotional Instagram post that was shared by Junkyard, Jennifer thanked fans for their support during the “challenging time”.
She added, “We wish we could respond to each of you, but honestly, there are no words right now. We’re still struggling to process the news we received on Tuesday.
“After David’s ongoing fever and cough led us to the ER, we got results that have completely shattered our world. It’s devastating and life-altering, and we’re trying to navigate through the emotions and uncertainty that come with it.
“David is showing such incredible strength and resilience, and even in the midst of this darkness, he’s still managing to keep his sense of humor. It’s a reminder of how amazing he is.
“But we know this journey ahead will be extremely tough, David made it clear he is not giving up hope and we’re going to need all of your love and prayers.
“Thank you for standing by us. Your kindness and support mean everything to us. Please keep David in your thoughts as we take this one step at a time.”
A photo accompanying the message shows David in a gown while lying in a hospital bed and hooked up to oxygen.
He flashed a peace sign with one hand and a defiant one finger to his condition on the other.
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Replying, one follower said, “Sending love, healing vibes and prayers your way, David.”
Another added, “All the best mate. Literally one of my all time favourite bands that I put on once a week since their debut release.”
A third wrote, “We’re rooting for you all. Stay strong.”
And a fourth penned, “Hang tough, Roach! Praying for ya!”
David has provided lead vocals for Junkyard ever since the band was formed in 1987.
The group disbanded five years later before reforming in 2000.
The current line-up also features OG member Patrick Muzingo on drums, Todd Muscat on bass and Tim Mosher and Jimmy James on guitar.
Junkyard is now rallying round and doing all they can to raise money for David’s hospital treatment.
The band has launched a GoFundMe while also confirming David has squamous cell carcinoma, which is “affecting his head, neck, and throat”.
What is Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer that starts in cells called squamous cells.
It is not usually life-threatening but, if left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body.
According to Mayo Clinic, most squamous cell carcinomas of the skin are caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
UV radiation comes from sunlight, sun beds and lamps.
Symptoms can include: A firm bump on the skin, called a nodule. The nodule might be the same color as the skin, or it might look different. It can look pink, red, black or brown, depending on skin color.
A flat sore with a scaly crust, or a new sore or raised area on an old scar or sore.
A rough, scaly patch on the lip that may become an open sore, or a sore or rough patch inside the mouth.
A raised patch or wartlike sore on or in the anus or on the genitals.
Mayo Clinic advises people should see a doctor if a sore or scab doesn’t heal in about two months or if a flat patch of scaly skin doesn’t go away.
They wrote: “As many of you know, David who is a friend to all is in the fight of his life battling aggressive squamous cell carcinoma affecting his head, neck, and throat.
“Currently David requires around the clock care and supervision. David’s fiancée Jennifer has had to step away from traditional employment to become his full time care giver.
“While they have applied for disability and full time caregivers assistance it is an extremely long waiting period to go through the processing and receive approval. This has put them in a dire situation.
“This has been a devastating blow for David especially after he finally found happiness, stability, and things were going well for him.”
At the time of publication, the total raised was almost $28,000.
Country singer Nicholas Mich has also performed a Benefit Live Stream Concert on Facebook to raise cash for David’s fund.
