Mavericks cancel shows after Raul Malo’s heartbreaking diagnosis

Country music group The Mavericks have canceled their upcoming concerts after frontman Raul Malo revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer.

The band announced this week that several tour dates this month would be canceled or rescheduled, after Malo, 58, announced his diagnosis in an Instagram video.

He said the group underwent a “health regimen” and were examined by a doctor, which ultimately led to the discovery of “two cancerous spots” in their gastrointestinal system.

“We’re going to fight with everything we’ve got,” Malo said. “Stay healthy, take care of yourself and we’ll see you on the road.”

The Mavericks said they were canceling several upcoming shows following the diagnosis.

The canceled shows will impact two dates in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, on July 12 and 14, with another show on July 13 in Denver postponed until late August.

Malo began his video by thanking fans for their growing support for the band this year following the release of their latest album, and made it clear that he has no plans to stop performing altogether.

He said that in recent years on the road, the band has “done some good to their health” and “enjoyed themselves a little more.”

“We’re taking a little bit better care of ourselves and really trying to do all the right things with nutrition and stuff,” he said. “So part of the health journey is getting checked out. Going to a doctor, getting a physical and starting from there.”

Malo said his initial tests “led to another appointment with a gastrointestinal specialist, which led to a CT scan… and that revealed two cancerous spots.”

Following the diagnosis, the 58-year-old said he was set to begin chemotherapy after the July 4 holiday, but reassured his fans that the treatment is one of the most manageable cancer therapies.

“Most people are continuing to work and go about their daily lives as if nothing is happening,” he continued. “So let’s hope for the best and let’s keep things going that way.”

“The reason I’m telling you all this, one of the reasons I’m telling you all this, is that some shows might be affected this year while we navigate this situation and see how the therapy goes.”

Malo reassured his fans that he is receiving “the best possible care” and that the type of chemotherapy he is receiving is among the least invasive of all cancer treatments.

Malo concluded his video by urging his fans to get checked out as well.

“I say this mainly because we want you all to get checked out. Go see a doctor. Be proactive in your health. It will help you fight whatever is ailing you,” he said.

“Stay healthy, take care of yourself and I’ll see you on the road.”

The singer and guitarist’s video was met with an outpouring of support from the band’s fans, who called for Malo to make a “speedy recovery.”

“I pray the treatment is easy and the results are great,” one fan commented.

Another said: “Many prayers for you, dear sir. Thank you for sharing this important personal message with all.”