Skyhooks, Angels Guitarist Bob Spencer Diagnosed With Cancer

Legendary Australian guitarist Bob Spencer – who is best known as the guitarist who replaced Red Symons in Skyhooks in 1977 and a member of The Angels from the mid-80s through to the early-90s – has revealed he has been diagnosed with cancer.

Spencer announced the sad news on his Facebook page earlier this week, though did so with a positive and inspiring piece that stressed the point that he is “going to be fine”.

His excellent statement tells you pretty much all you need to know, so we'll leave it to him to let you know all about his condition.

Greetings Groovers.

First, I'm going to be fine.

Second, I have been diagnosed with a tumour (that's the "C" one) on my left kidney. We found out about this by accident only because I need my gallbladder removed, this concern now being completely overshadowed by the finding of a kidney growth. The tumor (which I've named "Eric the Freeloader") is of a size & position to preclude it being removed from my kidney, so the kidney will need to be removed. No other growths have been found, one can function on only one kidney, so this is pretty good, all things considered. It's been a difficult, upsetting & sleep deprived week, however, we are extremely happy & relieved about this outcome. I have had a glimpse of what others have gone through, continue to go through, & it's no fun.

As some of you are aware, I am an atheist, so rather than spend time on prayers or somesuch, if you feel so inclined, please use your time to go & help a friend or spend time with your kids instead. Groovy?

Lastly, see "first" again.

Over!

Bob.

Spencer had been playing as a part of Doc Neeson's The Angels 100% band, along with Graham "Buzz" Bidstrup, Jim Hilbun and James Morley. The band's scheduled tour for earlier this year was sadly cancelled as frontman Neeson was hospitalised with a brain tumour over the Christmas/New Year's period last year.

Spencer presently works as a band coach, with his company Greater Groove Music.