Exodus Drummer Tom Hunting Battling Cancer

Exodus drummer Tom Hunting has revealed that he is undergoing treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, a form of cancer.

Hunting, who turned 55 this past Sunday (April 11), revealed the news in a statement on social media:

“Today I will be starting treatment for a squamous cell carcinoma. It’s a gastric tumor that was diagnosed in my upper stomach in February. I’m making this public to raise awareness for people to pay attention to symptoms of stomach and esophageal issues. If they persist, please go get it checked out. I’m not gonna be sheepish talking about it. I feel that if I can help someone with what I’ve learned, or someone out there has information to share with me, it’s a win-win! When you can name the enemy, it’s empowering, and you’re 1 step closer to killing it!

“Ok, you’ve heard the bad news. The good news is he feels great physically! I’m gonna beat this like a fucking snare drum that owes me money!!! I’ve had great doctors and a great support system that is an army in itself. I’m ready for the fight!

“We have a lot to celebrate this year with the release of what will be a career-defining album and tours to follow! I’m stoked for everyone to hear it, and even more excited to get out there and play some of it! I will see you all very soon! CHEERS!!!”

Although guitarist Gary Holt is Exodus’ most famous member, Hunting co-founded the band before Holt ever joined. He appeared on Exodus’ first three albums Bonded by Blood, Pleasures of the Flesh, and Fabulous Disaster, before leaving the group in 1989. He rejoined the band in 1996; left again following 2004’s Tempo of the Damned; and then re-joined once more for 2007’s The Atrocity Exhibition… Exhibit A and its successors, Exhibit B: The Human Condition (2010) and Blood In, Blood Out (2014).

A new Exodus album, Persona Non Grata — also featuring Hunting — is due later this year.

Thanks: Ranpal C.