The Jezabels’ world tour has been cancelled due to the health of keyboardist Heather Shannon, 29, who will undergo immediate treatment for ovarian cancer, something she has battled for three years.
The four-piece released a statement on Friday explaining their decision to cancel the tour as they did not wish to proceed without the full band.
“Three years ago Heather was diagnosed with a unique type of ovarian cancer. Although she has been able to maintain life as usual generally, between treatments, the time has come for her to undergo further immediate treatment which will require her to stay in Sydney.”
“We were very excited to be hitting the road again in support of our third album, SYNTHIA, but sadly due to a sudden turn of events Heather’s condition requires attention now so touring in the proposed time frame is no longer possible.”
Ovarian cancer is a disease where some of the cells in one or both ovaries start to grow abnormally and develop into cancer.
Each year, more than 1,200 Australian women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and around 800 will die from the disease according to a report by the Australian Institute of Health & Welfare and National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre.
However, early detection means the chance of survival significantly increases.
Shannon added to the statement posted to the band’s Facebook page:
"Up until now, I have preferred to not let this diagnosis get in the way of getting on with life. I feel a deep frustration at this new roadblock, as I now have to take a step back and undergo treatment. The band means so much to me, and cancelling the tour has been a very sad decision. I am hopeful that in the near future we will be back on the road again playing music we love. This album means so much to us, and we were so looking forward to sharing it live with everyone.”
ABC Radio station, Triple J offered their well wishes on Friday, "triple j sends Heather and the band the best wishes at this time and hopes for a swift recovery. We're also looking forward to hearing more kick-ass music from Synthia."
Ticket refunds for the national tour will be available from ticket providers.
For more information on ovarian cancer head to ovariancancer.net.au/.