Singer-songwriter Amanda Somerville, who has fronted notable heavy metal acts Epica, Kamelot and Avantasia, has been diagnosed with brain cancer.
Videos by Wide Open Country
After Forever guitarist Sander Gommans announced his wife's cancer diagnosis Saturday, Sept. 19, on Instagram.
"Unfortunately, I have some very sad news to share. The love of my life, mother of my three daughters and beautiful wife Amanda Somerville has a malignant and aggressive brain tumor," the post read.
"We're shocked, devastated and I can't describe the challenges we're facing as a family right now," he continued. "We're very grateful for the help we're getting from family and friends. Positive thoughts help. Prayers help. Keeping us in your minds help."
Gommans concluded, "Please be there for Amanda and our kids and have us in your minds. Feel free to share this message in a respectful way. Amanda gives so much to all of us. Love, music, friendship, strength. It's time to send our hope and power to her. Thanks, it means a lot to us."
Musicians, Fans Show Support For Amanda Somerville
Fellow musicians and fans have flooded the post with words of encouragement and well wishes.
Avantasia founder Tobias Sammet called the news "devastating" in his comment under Gommans' Instagram post.
"Dear Sander and Amanda, this is devastating to hear and breaks my heart. On behalf of the whole team, I wish Amanda all the best in the world, and the strength to beat this.
"My thoughts and prayers are with her, you, your kids and your family. Love and strength! From Tobi and the whole Avantasia family," he wrote.
One fan commented on Gommans' Facebook post to rally fans for support.
"The first time I heard about Amanda was back in 2005, when she came up with the story and concept for Aina. I was always amazed by her creativity -- and by the fact that she actually wrote it all down in a single night. It's still one of my favorite records of all time.
"I can't imagine the pain and shock you must be experiencing. Time to fire up those rosary beads for Amanda," the fan concluded.
Loudwire reported that Somerville has played with Alice Cooper in addition to touring with numerous heavy metal bands.
