The Stray Cats have announced the cancellation of their fall United States tour, citing member Brian Setzer‘s “serious illness.”

In a statement, Setzer explained, “I’m heartbroken to share, due to serious illness, I am unable to perform and very regrettably have to cancel our Stray Cats tour. I know this affects so many people and I am devastated to have to deliver this news. I’ve been trying everything I can to go on and do these shows, but it is just not possible. I’ve been looking forward so much to being on stage with my band mates again and playing for all of our amazing fans, and I’m gutted.”

Earlier this year, Setzer revealed that he could not play the guitar due to an autoimmune disorder that affected his hands. “Towards the end of the last Stray Cats tour I noticed that my hands were cramping up,” he wrote on social media. “I’ve since discovered that I have an auto-immune disease. I cannot play guitar. There is no pain, but it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play.”

The Stray Cats were scheduled to kick off their fall tour this past weekend, but canceled the opening two dates in Michigan and Illinois. The group was slated to tour the States through the end of November, with planned stops in Las Vegas, Cincinnati and Wheatland, CA, where they were set to conclude the trek on Sept. 23 [sic - Nov. 23]. Refunds are available at the point of purchase.

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It's unknown what caused Setzer's illness. Earlier this year, the guitarist announced he was suffering from an autoimmune disorder that prevented him from performing. He made his condition public last February 13.

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“There is no pain, but it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play. I have seen some progress in that I can hold a pen and tie my shoes. I know this sounds ridiculous, but I was at a point where I couldn’t even do that. Luckily, I have the best hospital in the world down the block from me. It’s called the Mayo Clinic. I know I will beat this, it will just take some time.”

Roughly one month after posting the news, the guitarist announced his condition was improving.

“I just want to let you all know that I’m getting better day by day,” he posted on Facebook in March. “The progress I’m making is excellent! My dream is to visit Japan, the States, and Europe with Stray Cats, and of course, one of my biggest thrills would be bringing back the BSO Christmas show tradition.

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