Tom Parker Returns to Stage After Cancer Treatment in Spain
Tom Parker, a member of the British boyband The Wanted, has made a triumphant return to the stage following his ‘revolutionary treatment’ in Spain. The 33-year-old singer, who is battling stage 4 glioblastoma, an incurable form of brain cancer, had previously announced on Twitter that he would not be able to join his bandmates on tour due to his need for extensive treatment at a private hospital on the Costa del Sol.
Concerns Over UK Cancer Treatment
The married father of two has previously expressed his shock at the lack of treatment options and funding for cancer patients in the UK. The therapies he has been receiving at the Spanish hospital include time in an oxygen machine, massages, and a special diet. The private facility charges £8,000 for a two-week stay or £11,600 for three weeks. His wife, Kelsey, has been keeping fans updated on his progress via regular Instagram posts.
Surprise Appearance on UK Tour
After three weeks of treatment in Spain, Parker surprised fans by joining The Wanted on stage as part of their major UK tour. His return to the stage on Monday sent fans into a frenzy. Despite missing shows in Glasgow and Newcastle, fans were overjoyed to see Parker back from Spain and performing at the Bournemouth show. During the surprise performance, Parker sang while seated on a gold throne and wearing dark sunglasses.
Reunion with Bandmate Max George
Parker also joined the band on the Cardiff leg of the tour and shared a series of photos on Instagram of him hugging bandmate Max George. The caption read: ‘Me me the man himself’, to which George responded: ‘My man’ along with two heart emojis. The photos showed the two bandmates smiling and giving a thumbs up, clearly delighted to be reunited.
Positive Outlook Despite Inoperable Brain Tumour
Parker revealed in October 2020 that he had been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour and was given a prognosis of 12 to 18 months to live by doctors. However, after six rounds of chemotherapy, 30 radiotherapy sessions, and the treatment in Spain, Parker’s outlook has become significantly more positive.
