Jean_Nelson / Depositphotos.com
Lady A’s Charles Kelley is giving fans an honest look at his cancer journey, sharing both encouraging news and the difficult reality of treatment.
In a recent Instagram Stories update, Kelley appeared alongside his wife, Cassie, joking that they were “Team Tired.” While the couple looked exhausted, they were all smiles as Kelley shared that his treatment is working.
“The good thing is that the treatment is working really well,” he said. “But I will say I naively thought I would not be in so much pain.”
Kelley, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma—a rare form of blood cancer—explained that the medications have been especially tough on his body. Because the disease affects his bone marrow, he’s been dealing with constant body aches, bone pain, and extreme fatigue.
“I do have my good days and my bad days,” he admitted, adding that he’s hopeful the chemotherapy will continue attacking the cancer cells and eventually ease some of the pain.
“It ain’t no joke, man. It’s real.”
Cassie has been by his side throughout the process, and Kelley praised her for “rocking it” as they navigate the challenges together.
Kelley first revealed his multiple myeloma diagnosis in late September after doctors investigated a series of unexplained rib fractures. While the disease is not currently considered curable, modern treatments can often put it into long-term remission.
Despite the diagnosis, Kelley has remained committed to making music. Kelley has also shared that the band is working on a new album and plans to continue performing as his treatment allows. Lady A has continued performing at select events, including the CMA’s Dolly Parton tribute and the Country Music Hall of Fame Medallion Ceremony honoring Tim McGraw. The trio performed “Live Like You Were Dying” to honor Tim but given the diagnosis and what Charles Kelly has gone through with his own cancer journey, the song seemed to hit a little harder. Checkout a portion of that performance below.
Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, and Kelley’s latest update offers plenty of hope while highlighting the very real challenges that come with fighting cancer.
View this post on Instagram
