May 4, 2001
Minneapolis, MN -- Laywers for George Harrison revealed on Thursday that the former Beatle underwent lung cancer surgery at Minneapolis' Mayo Clinic. The operation removed a cancerous growth from one of the musician's lungs. Harrison's lawyers did not say precisely when the surgery was performed.
"The operation was successful," the laywers said in their statement. "George has made an excellent recovery. He is in the best of spirits and on top form -- the most relaxed and free since the attack on him in 1999." Harrison's spokeswoman assured Rolling Stone that his recuperation is progressing well, and that he is currently vacationing comfortably in Tuscany, Italy.
This is not the first time that Harrison, fifty-eight, has had cancer surgery: In 1997, doctors removed a nodule from his lung after Harrison -- who had been a longtime smoker -- found a lump on his neck. He underwent two courses of radiation therapy at Britain's Royal Marsden Hospital and made a successful recovery.
Putting a lighthearted spin on their statement, Harrison's lawyers referred to the musician's recently reissued album by saying: "Although All Things Must Pass away, George has no plans right now and is still Living in the Material World, and wishes everyone all the very best, God Bless, and not to worry."
Written by JENNY ELISCU
for RollingStone.com News
