Rock star shares hospital bed update after ‘very aggressive’ cancer diagnosis
Rock singer David Roach has posted a photo from his hospital bed after being diagnosed with a ‘very aggressive’ type of cancer.
While his cancer battle was announced earlier this year, a new post from him and his fiancée Jennifer shared that recent news had ‘completely shattered’ their world after he sought medical advice for an ongoing fever and cough.
David, who plays for heavy metal band Junkyard, has been flooded with support from fans and his bandmates alike in recent months, who have set up a GoFundMe to help with the costs of his treatment.
Jennifer has also had to give up her career in order to become her partner’s full-time carer.
The couple penned an emotional update on Instagram, which was shared on Junkyard’s main account, and accompanied by a photo of David lying in bed in hospital, linked up to numerous machines.
While making a peace sign with one hand, David is also shown giving the finger to cancer, holding up his middle digit defiantly.
‘First off, we want to thank you all for the overwhelming support and love you’ve shown us during this incredibly challenging time. We wish we could respond to each of you, but honestly, there are no words right now,’ the caption began, with the couple admitting they were ‘still struggling to process the news we received on Tuesday’.
They continued: ‘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 humour. It’s a reminder of how amazing he is.’
However, while the couple acknowledged that ‘the journey ahead will be extremely tough’ they also shared that ‘David made it clear he is not giving up hope’.
‘We’re going to need all of your love and prayers,’ they added. ‘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.’
‘Prayers, brother from long ago,’ wrote Nick Sternberg, while another follower added: ‘Sending lots of good vibes!! Please get well soon.’
‘Wishes for a strong recovery, sir!’ commented Paul Duncan while Rosemary O posted: ‘Sending love, healing vibes and prayers your way, David.’
In a lengthy post, Sloe Jenn shared: ‘2 albums defined the summer before my senior year, 1989: Badlands & Junkyard.’
After naming some of her favourite songs, she added: ‘Today I’m just a 53 yo rocker chick, grandbaby, and an empty nest. Lots of body parts hurt and don’t bend like they used. Throw in some Junkyard and I’m 17 again.’
‘Thanks David for giving me good memories. Love ya, bro,’ she signed off.
Junkyard had previously shared David’s cancer news on social media and announced the fundraising page, writing: ‘As you all know, our singer David Roach has been diagnosed with a very aggressive form of cancer. A GoFundMe has been set up to help with medical expenses.
‘If you can, please donate and share the link. Let’s rally behind David and show him the love and support he deserves.’
On Sunday evening, friend and fellow musician Nicholas Mich performed a benefit concert for David on Facebook Live.
‘Trying to raise some money to help him and Jennifer out during this difficult time while David battles cancer,’ Nicholas wrote in the caption.
‘I’ll be doing a bunch of Junkyard songs along some other country and Rock songs mixed in.’
Junkyard formed in Los Angeles in 1987, with David a founding member alongside drummer Patrick Muzingo.
The current lineup also includes bassist Todd Muscat and Tim Mosher and Jimmy James both on guitar.
Junkyard’s self-titled debut album was release in 1989, followed by Sixes, Sevens & Nines in 1991.
High Water, their most recent album, came out in 2017 and reached number 24 on the Billboard Hard Rock charts.
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