Former Deep Purple keyboardist Jon Lord, who was a founding member of the band, has revealed that he is suffering from cancer. Lord, 70, did not reveal what type of cancer he is afflicted with, but he did post a statement on his blog, which read as follows:

"I would like all my friends, followers, fans and fellow travelers to know that I am fighting cancer and will therefore be taking a break from performing while getting the treatment and cure.

"I shall of course be continuing to write music – in my world it just has to be part of the therapy – and I fully expect to be back in good shape next year."

We think it's just amazing that Lord is adopting that attitude –- that music is a crucial and quintessential element of his therapy. With that type of positive thinking in place, it should serve him well as he navigates his arduous journey through treatment.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the keyboardist.

More From Noisecreep