Charles Kelley shared a new update on his battle with cancer, one month after initially revealing his diagnosis. (Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur / Getty Images for CMA)
The 45-year-old singer, best known as a member of country trio Lady A, revealed on September 29 that he had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare form of blood cancer.
Following the announcement, Kelley shared his determination to continue doing what he loves despite the diagnosis. He remains hopeful that he can keep making music and performing, saying, “I think physically I will feel like myself…I wanna keep working…this is where I belong…”
Kelley recently offered another glimpse into his cancer journey through an Instagram Story, revealing that the side effects of treatment have been more difficult than he initially anticipated. Since Instagram Stories disappear after 24 hours, the video is no longer available on his account. However, PEOPLE transcribed most of his message.
He began by sharing some encouraging news, explaining that he could already feel the treatments making a difference. Still, the physical toll had caught him off guard.
“…but I will say I naively thought I would not be in so much pain,” he admitted.
The singer went on to describe the ongoing aches and exhaustion he has experienced throughout treatment.
“It’s kind of constantly achey and really tired, but I do have my good days and my bad days. It’s a trip, man. It’s a trip. But we’re getting through it…I’m hoping that as the chemo gets in there and fights off these cancer cells, that my bones and everything will actually feel a lot better over the next few weeks. But it ain’t no joke, man. It’s real.”
Kelley’s wife, Cassie Kelley, has also been keeping followers informed about what the family is going through. In her own Instagram Story, she offered an honest account of the challenges they have faced during his treatment.
“When people ask, ‘How are you doing?’ Honestly, the answer’s not great. We are not doing great over here,” she said.
She added, “Today was not great but tomorrow is treatment four and I will find things to be grateful for tomorrow for sure.”
Charles Kelley’s Cancer Diagnosis Explained: What Is Multiple Myeloma?
Kelley was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare type of blood cancer that develops in plasma cells.
According to the Mayo Clinic, cancerous plasma cells can build up in the bone marrow, potentially leading to bone pain and weakness.
Other possible symptoms include fatigue, frequent infections and shortness of breath. Multiple myeloma can also cause elevated calcium levels in the blood, which may result in additional symptoms such as nausea, increased thirst and confusion.
Although the disease can cause significant complications, the Mayo Clinic explains that treatment can help control multiple myeloma, ease symptoms and reduce the risk of further problems.
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