Toby Keith has released a video saying that he can’t accept an award because of his battle with stomach cancer.
Country music legend Toby Keith took to social media this week to reveal upsetting news to his fans; he will not be able to travel to accept his lifetime achievement award at The SabesWings’ Second Annual Strike Out Fundraiser due to the treatments he is receiving for stomach cancer.
Since posting the video, he has been met with an outpouring of support from his loyal fanbase.
Toby Keith was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at The SabesWings’ Second Annual Strike Out Fundraiser in Paso Robles, CA and shared a virtual speech, accepting the honor.
Keith ‘Sorry’ That He Can’t Accept Award
In a video posted to TikTok, Keith said that he was honored to be given the award, and that he laments not being able to accept it in person.
“I’m honored to accept the lifetime achievement award from SabesWings,” the 61 year-old singer said. “I’ve been through a crazy year dealing with cancer myself and was unable to attend the event and I’m sorry about that.”
Keith proceeded to thank “all the folks at SabesWings,” and he then spoke a little more about the award itself.
‘Dream Come True’
“Bret and Kandace select individuals for this honor in three categories — servitude to a collection of people who are in need, making a difference in the lives of others, and the common thread to work cohesively with other groups sharing a purpose and passion,” he said.
MyRadioLink reported that Keith was referring to the fact that this fundraiser was hosted by the former all-star MLB baseball player Bret Saberhagen and his wife, Kandace. The fundraiser was ultimately a huge success, raising $1,046,000 for the SabesWings charity, which helps cancer patients that are in need of medical financial assistance.
Keith went on to talk about the work his eponymous foundation is doing with SabesWings to help cancer patients and survivors.
“My foundation, the Toby Keith Foundation, founded the OK Kids Korral in Oklahoma City. We facilitate lodging and food and transportation to and from the hospital for the kids with cancer and their families while they stay across the street from the Children’s Hospital,” he said. “Helping ease that burden is the reason we started the foundation. It’s truly a dream come true.”
Fans Respond
Outsider reported that fans took to the comments section of Keith’s video to voice their love and support for him during this difficult time.
“I’ve seen you 3 or 4 times in concert and I really enjoyed them. I pray that you get well soon. You are an awesome entertainer!!!” one fan wrote, with another adding, “Dear [Jesus], son of God hear my prayers, please carry this man in your arms, I ask for comfort and healing. AMEN. GET WELL TOBY.”
Another fan opened up about their own cancer experience, saying, “Sending prayers for you and all that are [fighting] cancer. I lost my fiancé 3 years ago this month. God bless you all.”
Keith Reveals His Diagnosis
Keith revealed back in June that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer in the fall of 2021.
“I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax,” he said on Instagram at the time. “I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”
While we’re saddened to see that Keith’s cancer battle is still making traveling difficult for him, we’re glad to see the outpouring of love that he’s getting from fans as he continues to fight for his life. Please join us in saying a prayer for Keith as his cancer battle continues!
