Riot founder and guitarist Mark Reale has been admitted to a San Antonio hospital in critical condition due to complications of Crohn's disease. Subsequently, there is a possibility that he may not appear in the band's upcoming performances in the Northeast and aboard the 70,000 Tons of Metal Cruise to Grand Cayman.

Mark has been battling Crohn's for most of his life, working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for his illness. He was in Texas bravely attempting to practice for the shows, but was felled by a severe onset of Crohn's symptoms leaving him in the Intensive Care Unit at an undisclosed facility.

The band has agreed that the performances will take place as scheduled with the possibility that Mark may not be well enough in time to appear. Riot has also acknowledged that Mark has been struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of their new album, 'Immortal Soul,' and that guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the album with Mark's creative direction while he was unable to perform.

Riot has released the following statement about Reale's condition:

"We ask fans and friends of the band to pray for Mark's speedy recovery, and to support the band in our efforts to bring you the Riot reunion shows that have been so long in the making. While Mark's family insists on privacy during this difficult time, your prayers and good wishes will make it to his bedside until he is able to return to the stage.

Many thanks and Shine On!

Mike, Tony, Bobby and Don"

Reale founded Riot in New York City in 1975. The band has gone on to release 15 studio albums and have toured with everyone from AC/DC and KISS to Black Sabbath and Sammy Hagar.

Watch Riot's 'Bloodstreets' Video

Watch 'Learn About Crohn's Disease' Video

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