Some very unfortunate news coming from the Omnium Gatherum camp, as the band took to social media to announce that their vocalist Jukka Pelkonen was diagnosed with lymphoma. That diagnosis is going to keep him off the upcoming European tour, but the band assured fans that the show will go on.
In an Instagram post, Pelkonen revealed his diagnosis and told fans that Shade Empire and Halysis vocalist Henry Hämäläinen would be taking his place.
“Hello friends
“It is Jukka from OG. I have to inform you I won’t be able to participate on the upcoming European tour. This is because I have been diagnosed with Lymphoma. And now this serious situation requires my full attention.
“But worry not. OG is a train which is not easily stopped. After a careful dialogue and consideration with my brothers in OG we decided to ask a talented individual to join the tour. He is Henry Hämäläinen ( @shadeempireofficial / @halysisofficial ). An experienced singer and a frontman. We think he is more than suitable to headbang with OG on this tour.”
For the uninitiated, the Mayo Clinic describes lymphoma as a “cancer that affects the lymphatic system… [which is] made up of organs, glands, tubelike vessels and clusters of cells called lymph nodes.” The lymph nodes are part of the body’s auto-immune system. Lymphoma directly affects the “lymph nodes, blood, bone marrow, spleen, and other tissues throughout the body, such as in the gastrointestinal system, central nervous system, bones or skin.”
There are two main types of lymphoma — Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin. We don’t know which version Pelkonen has, but there are treatments available that could reduce the risk to his health and body.
Having been chosen as Pelkonen’s replacement, Hämäläinen said he looked forward to helping the band during this difficult time.
“Hi there OG family, Henry here!
“While I’m truly saddened by Jukka having to step away from this tour, I’m extremely honored to be called upon in the band’s time of need.
“The trust shown by the whole band – and especially Jukka himself – means a lot to me.
“As a silver lining, the tour is still happening in its entirety and we’ll make sure it’s going to be one hell of a ride! Even with this setback, the spirit of OG is strong, so see you all at the shows!”
We at MetalSucks want to wish Pelkonen a safe and speedy recovery.