British hip-hop pioneer Khaliyl, formerly known as MC Mell’O, has launched a fundraising appeal to raise more than £20,000 for private surgery after living with chronic hiccups for 18 years. The condition, Type III achalasia, has made eating, drinking and resting difficult, according to Michael Henry, who explained the toll it has taken on his daily life.
Living with chronic hiccups
In a heartfelt appeal, Khaliyl said: "Peace, everyone. My name is KHALIYL, though many people know me as MC Mell’O’. I’m sharing my story with you today and humbly asking for your support as I seek the private surgery I desperately need."
He added: "For over 18 years, I have lived with chronic hiccups associated with my condition, Type III achalasia. What may seem like a minor inconvenience to others has become an ongoing challenge in my life."
"Living with persistent hiccups, alongside the difficulties associated with this condition, has taken its toll on my everyday life. The effects reach beyond the hiccups themselves. Eating and drinking, getting proper rest, managing discomfort and simply trying to go about daily life can become difficult when a health condition is constantly affecting you."
Fundraising for private treatment
Khaliyl, from Battersea, London, is aiming to raise more than £20,000 to cover the operation and related medical costs. He says the final bill will depend on the treatment plan confirmed by his medical team, and has stressed that surgery cannot guarantee a cure. However, he remains hopeful that specialist treatment could improve his condition and quality of life.
He said: "Asking for help is not easy. It takes courage to share something so personal and to admit that you cannot meet the cost of the treatment you need by yourself. But after so many years of living with this condition, I feel it is time to reach out and give myself the opportunity to seek a better future."
A pioneering hip-hop career
The rapper became involved in Britain's hip-hop scene in the early 1980s, initially as a breakdancer known as Moomin. He performed with crews including The 52 Flash Kru and the Strawberry All-Stars before turning to rapping with the No Parking MCs.
He later joined Jus Badd, which also featured Monie Love, and released the single 'Free Style' in 1988. His solo career took off the following year with the release of 'Comin’ Correct' and 'Wize', before his debut album, Thoughts Released (Revelation I), came out in 1990 to critical acclaim.
He also featured on recordings by artists including Caron Wheeler, Urban Species and Gunshot, and worked with musicians including Manu Dibango.
Hope for a better quality of life
Now, after years of living with the condition, he hopes the fundraising appeal will give him a chance to regain some comfort and independence. He said: "My hope is that, with your support, I can raise the funds necessary to access private surgery and move towards a better quality of life after so many years of struggling with this condition. Thank you for helping me take this step. Your kindness, compassion and support mean more than words can express."
