Paul ‘Bonehead’ Arthurs is “feeling OK” after undergoing his first radiotherapy session, following his tonsil cancer diagnosis.
The 56-year-old guitarist – who was a founding member of Oasis – is to undergo 30 sessions of radiotherapy and two chemotherapy sessions over the course of his treatment, after telling fans last month he has cancer.
He wrote on Twitter: “Quick update, I had my first session of radiotherapy this morning and am now having a course of chemotherapy which will finish at 6am, so it’s an overnight stay at the Christie Hospital. Another session of radiotherapy in the morning, then home. Thirty sessions of radiotherapy and two sessions of chemo in total, so I’ve started and am crossing it off. I won’t bore you with a daily diary, no one wants that, but I’m feelling OK and I’ll probably tweet the usual nonsense as I go along. See you all soon, sorry it won’t be at Knebworth or any of the gigs over summer, but for those of you who are going, have a ball. Much love xxxx (sic)”
Bonehead took to Twitter in April to explain he will be taking a break from his music career while he undergoes “a course of treatment”.
He wrote: “Just to let you all know I’m going to be taking a break from playing for a while.
“I’ve been diagnosed with tonsil cancer, but the good news is it’s treatable and I’ll be starting a course of treatment soon.”
Bonehead is now set to miss all of his scheduled gigs this summer, including Liam Gallagher’s much-anticipated return to Knebworth in June.
He added on Twitter: “I’ll keep you posted how it’s going, I’m gutted I’m missing the gigs with Liam and the band. Have the best summer and enjoy the gigs if you’re going, I’ll see you soon xxx (sic)”
Liam, 49, wrote: “Sending BIG love to the 1 n only Bonehead and his family wishing you a speedy recovery we’re all thinking of you rasta you’ll be back on stage bfore you can say r we doing Colombia LG x (sic)”
Andy Bell, another former Oasis star, has also sent his best wishes to Bonehead, writing: “Get well soon Bone. (sic)”
Bonehead quit Oasis in 1999, saying he wanted to spend more time with his family, but he’s kept working with Liam over the years, including in his band Beady Eye and on other solo projects.