Barry Manilow Postpones Tour Dates Due to Lung Recovery After Cancer Surgery
- Singer Barry Manilow has announced further postponements to his upcoming arena tour as he continues to recover from surgery for lung cancer.
- Despite diligently using a treadmill three times a day, Manilow found he was still limited in his ability to perform.
- Manilow acknowledged the internal conflict between his desire to return to the stage and his body’s need for continued healing.
Singer Barry Manilow has announced further postponements to his upcoming arena tour as he continues to recover from surgery for lung cancer. The 82-year-old shared a statement on Friday, , detailing a recent “very depressing visit” with his surgeon, which prompted the difficult decision.
Despite diligently using a treadmill three times a day, Manilow found he was still limited in his ability to perform. “I told him that I have been using the treadmill three times a day (I have) but that I still couldn’t sing more than three songs in a row before I had to stop,” he wrote in the statement. He had hoped to be ready for the arena shows, but his surgeon advised against it, stating, “Barry, you won’t be ready to do a 90 minute show. Your lungs aren’t ready yet. You’re in great shape considering what you’ve been through, but your body isn’t ready. You shouldn’t do the first Arena shows. You won’t make it through.”
Manilow acknowledged the internal conflict between his desire to return to the stage and his body’s need for continued healing. “Deep down, I wanted to go back—but my body knew what my heart didn’t want to admit: I wasn’t ready,” he explained.
The initial diagnosis of a “cancerous spot” on his left lung was made in , following a bout of bronchitis. This led to the postponement of previously scheduled concert dates and a planned Las Vegas residency to allow for surgical intervention. The current round of postponements affects shows scheduled between and .
Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early detection and advancements in treatment, including surgery, have significantly improved outcomes. The specific type of lung cancer and its stage are critical factors in determining the best course of treatment. While the details of Manilow’s specific diagnosis haven’t been publicly released, the fact that surgery was deemed appropriate suggests the cancer was detected at a stage where surgical removal was considered a viable option.
Recovery from lung surgery can be a gradual process. The extent of the surgery – whether it involved removing a small portion of the lung or a larger section – influences the recovery timeline. Patients often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and pain in the initial weeks following surgery. Pulmonary rehabilitation, which includes exercises to strengthen the lungs and improve breathing, is often recommended to aid in recovery. As Manilow’s experience illustrates, regaining the stamina required for a physically demanding performance like a 90-minute concert can take considerable time and effort.
Manilow’s surgeon has indicated a potential path forward, suggesting he may be able to perform in Las Vegas at the “very end of March” and resume the second leg of his arena tour beginning in April. This cautious optimism reflects the ongoing assessment of his recovery progress.
“I’m SO, SO sorry I have to reschedule some of these first Arena shows. Again!” Manilow wrote, expressing his disappointment to fans. However, he remains resolute in his commitment to return to the stage, adding, “But when I do come back, I will COME BACK!!!”
He concluded his statement with gratitude for the support he has received, noting, “The doctor said that my body had been through hell and that it needed time to heal. So, I’m going back to healing. All my love and gratitude, B.”
This situation highlights the importance of prioritizing health, even for performers accustomed to rigorous schedules. It also underscores the often-lengthy and challenging road to recovery following cancer treatment. Manilow’s transparency about his health journey may encourage others facing similar challenges to seek medical attention and prioritize their well-being.