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John Wilkinson Takes A Sabbatical

December 15, 2007 | People
John Wilkinson has asked ElvisMatters to inform the fans about his medical condition. As you may have read John was taken to the hospital for surgery. With John’s permission, we can now give you more details. John was diagnosed with colon-cancer. During surgery two weeks ago, the doctors took away his colon, and a tumor. In order to be 100% sure that all the cancer cells are removed, John starts with chemotherapy later this month. In the meantime, he’s home to rest and recuperate.

Given the circumstances, John has cancelled all performances for the next 14 months – maybe longer, if necessary. But John told us that, if he feels better after that period of time, he will be ‘available’ to the fans once again. To quote John: “I will not give up on the fans, for as long as I may live.” What his plans include after his sabbatical, is unsure. What matters now, is that he takes the rest he needs and deserves, and prepares himself for the chemotherapy that begins right after Christmas.

Just like it was before the surgery, we keep in close contact with John, and if there are developments, we will post the news – needless to say after checking with John first, or – like now – on his request. John will be kept informed on what’s happening in the Elvis world, but he’ll be ‘watching’ instead of ‘participating’.

Get well-cards for John are, of course, still very welcome at this address:

John Wilkinson / ElvisMatters
140 Postelarenweg
2400 Mol
Belgium.

ElvisMatters will deliver the cards to John personally in Springfield, MO in three weeks time.
Source:ElvisMatters
Ton Bruins wrote on December 15, 2007
Well, what can I say ? I wish him all the best. May he become healthy again.
bray1977 wrote on December 15, 2007
The very best of luck to you John. You can beat this thing. Millions of fans will be rooting for you.
2kisses&3scarfs wrote on December 15, 2007
I'm sad to hear this. I wish you a speedy and complete recovery. May God Bless you, John, and keep you well.
Elvisnites wrote on December 15, 2007
Take care of yourself John, my prayers are with you.
PaulFromFrance wrote on December 15, 2007
John has a rough time in front of him. Sorry to hear about this. Take care, guy !
Matthias Kuenzer wrote on December 16, 2007
Get well soon!
old shep wrote on December 17, 2007
Good luck, best wishes and a happy Christmas to you and yours