Sir Rod Stewart has vowed to get back on stage within weeks and told the Record readers his new heart stent is a "gold-plated Ferrari".
Fans of Sir Rod have been worried about the rocker's health after he was forced to cancel the remainder of his North American tour. The 81-year-old is taking four weeks off to recover after undergoing heart surgery.
The singer underwent a coronary stent procedure, and has been forced to scrap shows in the US and Mexico. He had already cancelled performances in Cincinnati and Cleveland due to medical concerns.
Reassuring message to fans
But yesterday Sir Rod assured his legions of fans that they don't need to worry. He said: "It wasn't as bad as everyone is making out. I was in and out of hospital in 48 hours and the op took 15 minutes with a local anaesthetic. The stent is to stop a major heart attack - a precaution."
"They're extremely common in fellas my age - except my one's gold plated and made by Ferrari. I'll be raring to go once I've had three weeks rest....doctor's orders."
Sir Rod looked to assure fans on Wednesday on a post on Instagram, saying he is "feeling better and very much on the mend".
Tour cancellation and recovery
He added: "I want to thank the doctors, nurses and everyone who has taken such wonderful care of me. I am deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon."
His representatives said Sir Rod was "doing very well" following the procedure and had "returned to his normal daily activities". The statement added: "On the advice of his doctors, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage."
"Unfortunately, this means he will be unable to continue his current tour dates. Information regarding affected performances will be communicated by the respective promoters and venues."
Support from wife and previous health battles
Wife Penny Lancaster posted a sweet update after Sir Rod made the announcement on Instagram on Tuesday (August 11). She shared a pic of the two of them kissing with his track You're In My Heart in the background.
The Maggie May singer is no stranger to health battles. He has twice been diagnosed with cancer before getting the all clear. He was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in the year 2000 after a lump was discovered during a routine check up. He had emergency surgery a day later to have it removed with the procedure being a success.
At the time, he was worried he might have lost his distinctive raspy voice. Speaking after the surgery, Sir Rod said: "It was scary and it could have been very nasty. When you have a scare like that it puts things into perspective." He said: "As far as my voice is concerned, it is really weird. It is not as strong right now but it will be because I just keep on singing and singing and singing."
Seventeen years later, Sir Rod endured a second battle with cancer. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer, keeping the news out of the public eye and undergoing secret treatment.
The cancer was picked up during a routine check and he used his own experience to urge other men to get tested. He told a charity fundraiser in 2019: "Two years ago I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I'm in the clear now, simply because I caught it early. I've worked for two years and I've just been happy, and the good Lord looked after me." He added: "Guys, you've got to really go to the doctor ... Finger up the bum, no harm done."
