Toby Keith Sends Love to Fans Through His Cancer Battle
- Country star Toby Keith, 61, announced in June that he was diagnosed with stomach cancer last fall.
- Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is more likely to form in the gastroesophageal junction the area where the long tube (esophagus) that carries food you swallow meets the stomach.
- Having support through cancer is critical.
In a recent post to Instagram, Keith shares a video showcasing all the fan support he’s received through his battle. The Clinton, Oklahoma, native writes with gratitude, saying, “Thank you for all your love and support. -T.” The video features Keith’s hit song from 1993, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” which was his first number one song on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Read MoreToby Keith's Stomach Cancer Announcement
Toby Keith told fans about his stomach cancer diagnosis in early June 2022. "Last fall I was diagnosed with stomach cancer," Keith posted to Instagram. "I've spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax.”He continues, "I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can't wait.”
After releasing his first album in five years last October, Peso In My Pocket, Keith had been on tour. But after his cancer announcement, upcoming tour dates were removed from his website.
As he continues on his cancer journey ahead, Keith has made a point to thank the people that have stepped up to support him during this difficult time. "Thank you for all your love and support," he wrote in a recent post. "I have the best fans in the world."
Understanding Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, can affect any part of the stomach. Interestingly enough, stomach cancers usually develop in the main part of the stomach (stomach body) for most of the world, according to the Mayo Clinic.
In the United States, however, stomach cancer is more likely to form in the gastroesophageal junction the area where the long tube (esophagus) that carries food you swallow meets the stomach. Factors that increase your risk of having stomach cancer include:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Obesity
- A diet high in salty and smoked foods
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables
- Family history of stomach cancer
- Infection with Helicobacter pylori
- Long-term stomach inflammation (gastritis)
- Smoking
- Stomach polyps
Treatment options for stomach cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy. The decision-making process for choosing a treatment path can vary depending on a few factors, including:
- The cancer's location
- The stage of the cancer
- How aggressive the cancer is
- Your overall health
- Your treatment preferences
- Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of stomach cancer are not exclusive to the disease, but they may include: Difficulty swallowing, feeling bloated, feeling full, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, stomach pain, unintentional weight loss, and vomiting.
Support Through Cancer
We love how Keith is keeping an attitude of gratitude and remaining grateful for the support of his community. Having a strong support network through cancer is so important. Ovarian cancer fighter Beverly Reeves shares in an earlier interview how she thinks having a strong community during cancer is critical. She tells SurvivorNet, "If I had one piece of advice for someone who had just been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, it would be to get a strong support group together. Get your close friends. If you're connected to a faith community, get your faith community."
She continues, "Get your family. Let them know what's going on and let them help you. And sometimes that's the most difficult thing to do, but just know that they are there. If they love you, they're there to help you."
'Faith, Family, and Friends' Helped Beverly Reeves Get Through Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Contributing: SurvivorNet Staff
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