YOB have canceled several upcoming appearances after guitarist and vocalist Mike Scheidt was diagnosed with cervical spinal stenosis affecting his left arm and hand.
The band announced the news on social media today, confirming they will no longer perform at Ripple Fest or their upcoming October shows at Saint Vitus in Brooklyn, Soulcrusher in the Netherlands and with Smoke The Fuzz in Greece.
According to YOB, Scheidt began experiencing tingling in his left hand several weeks ago. While the symptoms initially went away when he moved his fingers, his condition later worsened significantly.
“Recently, he woke up one morning and his left arm and shoulder were on fire from nerve pain with his left arm not functioning properly,” the band explained. “An MRI revealed a cervical spinal stenosis due to calcium deposits which are pinching a nerve and causing his left arm and hand issues.”
In an accompanying video message, Scheidt addressed fans about the cancellations and his current health situation. He explained that the band is waiting to learn more about his treatment options, with surgery likely to be involved.
“Luckily it’s a minimally invasive one, but we’re in a holding pattern until we find out more,” Scheidt said. “We were so looking forward to these shows!”
Despite the cancellations, YOB indicated that they have other news on the horizon.
“The good news is we have a lot of exciting things to share and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve been cooking up!” the band added.
Further details regarding Scheidt’s treatment have not yet been announced.
Photo by Bobby Cochran
