Jethro Tull’s leader Ian Anderson revealed in an interview with Dan Rather that he is suffering from a incurable lung disease. Also saying his days were numbered. However, he said in a statement that his singer days are numbered. He also stated that he still have more years to come. He was diagnosed with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), an incurable lung disease.
The 72-year-old flautist and singer Ian Anderson said:
“Thanks for your concern but no worries about my diagnosed COPD and asthma. I have had 14 months with no infections. And no bronchitis so last year was the first since my 20s when I didn’t get sick at all. The conditions I have are early-stage and I plan to keep them that way.”
“I am at no more risk of catching the COVID virus than anyone else. Just that the results could be much worse than if I was 17 or even 27. If anything, I am less likely to catch it than many people as I have been practising very safe hygiene for years and social distancing is a way of life for me!”
He continued:
“I am well rehearsed in public spaces, restaurants, hotels etc. Only flying causes me concern. But I have all the best gels, sprays, masks and facial protection ready for if and when the time comes to embark into the real world professionally.”
“A mild COPD or asthma are just things to live with for the millions around the world who suffer. But no impact at all on my daily life as long as I don’t catch a cold or flu virus and suffer the subsequent heavy bronchitis which, for me, historically follows since I was a young man.”
“But on the upside I don’t suffer from hemorrhoids or erectile disfunction. So, things are looking up, not down — puns fully intended.”
“I really meant when talking to Dan Rather last September that my days as a singer were numbered, rather than days to live! After all, I am 73 years old this August! But I should be OK for a few more years if COVID-19 doesn’t get me first.”