Lester Cohen/WireImage.comSome sad news regarding one of Black Sabbath's original band members: Guitarist Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with lymphoma.
The legendary group made the announcement in a statement posted to its Facebook page.
"His bandmates would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time," it reads. "Iommi is currently working with doctors to establish the best treatment plan—the "IRON MAN" of Rock & Roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery."
The statement goes on to say that, despite the diagnosis, the heavy metal quartet's original lineup—Iommi (pictured here on the far right), Geezer Butler, Bill Ward and, of course, frontman Ozzy Osbourne—will continue "writing and recording their first album in 33 years."
It was back in November that Sabbath announced that not only would they be laying down a new collection of songs, but were planning a world tour as well.
No word, though, on how 63-year-old Iommi's current medical condition will affect the band's scheduled concerts, which were set to begin at the Download Festival in Donington Park, England, this June.