David Nelson, the legendary guitarist of New Riders of the Purple Sage and his own eponymous band, has announced he has been diagnosed with colon cancer. The announcement was made via the David Nelson Band yesterday.

The note says that Nelson will be focusing on his “treatment and healing over the next few months” and will not be able to perform with his band at their upcoming shows in California and Alaska. The band has cancelled their show tomorrow at Redway, CA’s Mateel Community Center, and longtime Nelson collaborator Peter Rowan will be filling in for Nelson at their Warfield show in San Francisco on Saturday.

Read the full note below.

Hi Kids, David here. I have some news to share. I’ve recently been diagnosed with colon cancer and I’ll need to be focused on my treatment and healing over the next few months. So, disappointing as it is, I won’t be able to play at the upcoming Mateel, Warfield and Alaska shows. But not to worry – I’m in good hands and looking forward to playing with the boys and seeing you all again in the not too distant future.

Love, David