Eagles of Death Metal bass player Brian O'Connor is to undergo surgery in Los Angeles on Wednesday after doctors diagnosed him with cancer.

The rocker insists his prognosis is good and he's looking forward to getting back onstage after beating the disease through ongoing treatment and chemotherapy.

A statement from O'Connor to fans reads, "With the remarkable support and love from my amazing friends and family, I am receiving the best medical and moral attention one could ask for. I cannot thank everyone enough for their continued support and involvement.

"I am excited for my full recovery and look forward to getting back to what I love most, melting face with my bass. I'm feeling great; after all, I am half unicorn."

As a result of his cancer diagnosis and the battle he has ahead, O'Connor has been forced to sit out of the Eagles of Death Metal's upcoming tour dates. Dead Weather and Queens of the Stone Age star Dean Ferita will fill-in for the bassist.

Meanwhile, Dave Grohl, John Paul Jones and Josh Homme's supergroup Them Crooked Vultures have announced London and Los Angeles shows to raise cash to cover uninsured O'Connor's medical bills.

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