February 10th 2025.
The music industry was rocked when David Johansen, co-founder of the legendary punk band New York Dolls, announced that he is battling stage four cancer. Fans were shocked by the news, which was first revealed through a Sweet Relief Fund set up in the 75-year-old's name to raise money for his treatment and ongoing care. It was Johansen's daughter, Leah Hennessey, who shared the extent of her father's health issues on the fundraising page.
In her heartfelt message, Leah explained that five years ago, during the beginning of the pandemic, they discovered that David's cancer had progressed and he had a brain tumor. Despite facing complications ever since, David chose to keep his diagnosis private, as he and his wife Mara are typically very private people. However, the family felt compelled to share their struggles now, as they are facing severe financial burdens due to the cost of his medical care.
Leah also shared that David's condition worsened in November when he fell down the stairs and broke his back in two places. This incident resulted in an extended hospital stay and added to the financial strain on the family. As a result, David's wife has become his full-time caregiver, as his physical limitations have increased.
Despite his illness, David has always been known for his humor and wisdom, but now, he requires specialized professional help to meet his daily needs. As Leah expressed, her father has dedicated his life to his passion as a singer and actor, delighting fans all over the world for six decades. However, due to his illness, he has been unable to work for the past five years.
In a statement released by Johansen himself, he shared that he and his family have been living with his illness for a long time, still managing to have fun and see friends and family. However, the fall he experienced after Thanksgiving has brought them to a whole new level of debilitation. David admitted that the pain he is experiencing is the worst he has ever felt in his entire life. For someone who has never been one to ask for help, he recognizes that this is an emergency and is grateful for any support.
The New York Dolls, formed in 1971, were among the original pioneers of punk music, alongside bands like the Velvet Underground and the Stooges. Their first two albums, titled New York Dolls and Too Much Too Soon, gained them a cult following, with fans all over the world seeking out their records and merchandise. Despite facing health challenges, David has continued to inspire and entertain audiences with his music and performances.
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