Charles Kelley of Lady A diagnosed with rare blood cancer

Charles Kelley, co-lead vocalist and founding member of the country music group Lady A, has announced a diagnosis of multiple myeloma, a rare form of blood cancer. Kelley shared the news via an Instagram video alongside his wife, Cassie McConnell Kelley, explaining that the condition was discovered following a series of unexplained rib fractures that prompted medical blood tests.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that develops in the bone marrow, where abnormal plasma cells crowd out healthy blood cells. While the condition is often considered incurable, Kelley expressed optimism regarding his prognosis, noting that medical treatments have advanced significantly in recent years. He stated, “I’m young, I feel healthy, and the treatments... have just come so far.”

Kelley intends to continue his professional work during his treatment, which he expects to be non-invasive for the first six months. He also plans to participate in Lady A’s upcoming Christmas tour, scheduled for December, and the group is currently preparing a new album. Kelley noted that he is approaching this health challenge with a mindset similar to his journey with sobriety, emphasizing the importance of taking things “one day at a time.”