Vivian Campbell: Cancer Returns But Def Leppard Guitarist Vows To Resume Concerts Despite Hodgkin’s Lymphoma [Video]

Vivian Campbell is battling cancer again. The Def Leppard guitarist, now 52, revealed that he has decided to step down from the planned tour, reported MSN.

Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the treatment plan precludes working with his beloved band for now, added Vivian. Campbell’s cancer impacts his lymphatic system.

“I’m saddened by the fact that my cancer has returned,” posted Vivian on Facebook. “However, I’m beyond consolation that it’s return will prevent me from being able to do my job for a while. I’m still working on a schedule of treatment with my doctors, but I will see you all very soon. My apologies.”

After completing tours of Europe, Canada, and Puerto Rico, Def Leppard is scheduled for U.S. performances with several other bands, including Styx and Tesla, well as Foreigner and Night Ranger. The band will then tour in Japan.

Chemotherapy was part of the rocker’s initial treatment after Vivian’s first diagnosis in 2013. Campbell subsequently revealed that his cancer (Hodgkin’s lymphoma) was in remission, and a year later, he was contemplating a stem cell transplant.

Def Leppard plans to schedule performances to allow Vivian to perform as much as possible, reported Rolling Stone.

For concerts at which Campbell cannot perform as a result of his cancer, Trixter guitarist Steve Brown will play.

When Vivian was first diagnosed, Campbell waited to reveal his cancer for three months.

“I feel fortunate that my cancer sent me an alarm call in the form of ‘the cough that wouldn’t quit,’ ” said the guitarist.

And after Vivian had finished his chemotherapy treatment, Campbell reflected on what he had learned about his life and music through battling cancer.

“I think I’m playing guitar better than I’ve ever played in my life because, unlike an athlete, it’s not like a physical thing where your body packs in when you’re 30. You actually get better and better,” explained the Def Leppard band member. “And also having this whole f**king chemo and cancer bollocks, the fact I’ve been able to work through it has really helped me mentally. And I’m really enjoying playing my instrument again, which I wouldn’t have honestly been able to say 10 years ago.”

As the Inquisitr reported, Tom Brokaw recently revealed his own battle with cancer. Brokaw also revealed what he had learned from the experience.

“I believe you make your own luck,” said Tom. “A big part of making your own luck is just charging out of the gate every morning … And if you want to be lucky you’ve got to go out and take advantage of it.”

[Photo by Kevin Winter / Getty Images for Live Nation]