MADNESS star Chris Foreman has revealed he has incurable cancer in a heartbreaking post to fans.
The 80s pop legend wrote about his shock diagnosis on the Madness Facebook page today.
The 69-year-old guitarist and backing vocalist said his first symptom was "severe pain" across his upper back and shoulders that became "unbearable".
He went for checks in June after and was told he had Myeloma, an incurable blood cancer that occurs in the bone marrow.
Chris explained they found a tumour on his spine, writing: "Earlier this year I had severe pain in my upper back and shoulders.
"On the 28th of June we played a show in France and it had become unbearable.
"I had an MRI scan at the end of June and they found a tumour on my spine. On the 4th of July I went to the Royal Sussex and had all sorts of stuff done to me.
"I had radiotherapy which blasted it and stopped the pain. I actually had a Spinal Tap too – rock n roll! I wasn't in good shape, to say the least.
"My kidneys were only at 14% function, which has greatly improved since then."
Despite the diagnosis, he ended on a positive note, telling fans: "What I've got is a form of cancer called myeloma.
"It's treatable but not curable. When I get it into remission (I will!) I should be able to get back to normal life."
He's hoping to be well enough to perform again next year, and thanked his tour crew and family for their unwavering support.
He's also adopted a healther lifestyle – ditching booze in favour of non alcoholic Margaritas.
He added: "Some people have had this for 20 years or more.
"I have a long way to go before I get back onstage but I aim to be back next year.
"The band, my family, my road crew family and my management team have all been very loving and supportive.
"One of the worst side effects is that I can't drink alcohol but I've mastered a non alcoholic Margarita and those Zero alcohol beers ain't too bad these days."
Who are Madness?
Madness, formed in Camden in 1976, became one of the most successful British bands of their era, with their blend of ska, pop and new wave defining a generation.
They scored huge hits in the late '70s and '80s with tracks like Our House, House of Fun, and One Step Beyond, and remain a festival favourite to this day.
Frontman Suggs has been the face of the band for nearly 50 years, guiding them through multiple breakups and reunions.
Their 2023 album, Theatre of the Absurd Presents C'est La Vie, became their 11th Top 10 LP, proving their enduring popularity.
Chris is one of the original members of the iconic British group.
He was in the band when they were named the North London Invaders, and within a year they were joined by Suggs.
In 1979 they had their breakthrough singles One Step Beyond, from their debut album of the same name, and My Girl.
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