Def Leppard / Dio Guitarist Vivian Campbell Announces Remission From Lymphoma
Fantastic news! Def Leppard / Dio guitarist Vivian Campbell is in remission from Hodgkin's lymphoma. Campbell was diagnosed with the form of cancer earlier this year, but in a Facebook post from the guitarist on his official page, Vivian Campbell announced that the recovery process has begun.
Iconic vocalist Ronnie James Dio, who Campbell performed beside in Dio's eponymous band, passed away from stomach cancer in 2010. The tragic death of one of metal's greatest singers made Campbell's diagnosis even more emotional. After having endured roughly two months of chemotherapy, Vivian Campbell was somewhat forced to reveal his cancer to the public, as the shredder's long hair was beginning to fall out.
Even while undergoing chemotherapy, Campbell's public voice was lighthearted and positive. "My diagnosis was Hodgkin’s lymphoma and 6 months of chemotherapy is the prescribed treatment," Campbell stated earlier this year. "I’m about 2 months in and feeling rather spiffy, all things considered. Hodgkin’s has an over 80% cure rate, so by my reckoning, if you’re going to have a cancer, Hodgie’s is the one to have!"
Campbell revealed the news of his remission last night (Nov. 5):
For anyone who gives a toss, after doing another PET scan and all the other follow up tests, then getting a second opinion etc., I'm officially in remission from Hodgies. That's the good news. The bad news is: I no longer have an excuse to not go to the gym.
Congratulations and best wishes to Vivian Campbell! We wish nothing but the best for one of hard rock's finest guitarists. Send your best wishes to Vivian by visiting his Facebook page or leaving a comment below!