Severe physical pain is forcing Lady Gaga to postpone the European leg of her Joanne World Tour until early 2018, the singer announced on Monday. The six-week European part of the tour was scheduled to begin on September 21st in Barcelona, Spain.
"I have always been honest about my physical and mental health struggles," Gaga explained in a touching Instagram post. "Searching for years to get to the bottom of them. It is complicated and difficult to explain, and we are trying to figure it out. As I get stronger and when I feel ready, I will tell my story in more depth, and plan to take this on strongly so I can not only raise awareness, but expand research for others who suffer as I do, so I can help make a difference.
Forum Discussion: Lady Gaga Postpones European Leg of Joanne World Tour
She continued: "I use the word 'suffer' not for pity, or attention, and have been disappointed to see people online suggest that I'm being dramatic, making this up, or playing the victim to get out of touring. If you knew me, you would know this couldn't be further from the truth. I'm a fighter. I use the word suffer not only because trauma and chronic pain have changed my life, but because they are keeping me from living a normal life. They are also keeping me from what I love the most in the world: performing for my fans. I am looking forward to touring again soon, but I have to be with my doctors right now so I can be strong and perform for you all for the next 60 years or more. I love you so much."
Earlier this week, Lady Gaga was rushed to hospital just hours before her performance at Brazil's Rock In Rio festival and remains under the care of medical professionals.
"It really hits home when you know the person you look up to is suffering the same way you are with the same illness," a fan on the Gaga Daily forums wrote, while another added: "I'm so worried about her but I know she'll come back around. I'd rather see these dates wait another 6 months than watch her injure herself beyond repair."
We are sending our love and positive thoughts to Gaga right now. Get well soon!