There's sad news for family, friends and fans of country music legend Jim Ed Brown. The singer has been diagnosed with lung cancer.

“Some of you may have heard various rumors since I have had to cancel a few shows over the past few weekends. To clarify and put those rumors to bed, I wanted to just come out and explain what is going on,” he says in a statement on Facebook. “Two weeks ago, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. At that time, I was in shock and scared, as I didn’t know what that really meant. After testing, the doctors have asked me to take the next four months off from touring and to focus on chemotherapy and radiation treatments to shrink the cancer cells. I will keep you all updated on the progress. I am forever grateful for the love, support and prayers during this time.”

The 80-year-old is receiving intensive treatments to combat the disease, and is optimistic about his recovery.

“I just had my first treatment today,” he shares in a video, “and I’m going to beat it with chemo and radiation. But I want to thank you for your prayers and support. And I’m going to beat this little thing called cancer, and I’m going to be all right in the next, well, maybe four months, OK? See you next year!”

The news comes only a couple weeks after Brown announced plans to release his first album in 30 years, 'In Style Again.'

“I love new music,” Brown explains. “I guess the whole world does. It’s always good to hear a new song. I love what I do. People have always been great to me. They have accepted me into their homes and lives. It’s unreal what radio and television has done for me. I am a very blessed man.”

Brown celebrated 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry last year. Best wishes to him from The Boot for a speedy recovery.

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