Westlife singer Mark Feehily, 43, has announced that he will be leaving the band just days before their world tour. The group originally consisted of Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, Shane Phelan and Brian McFadden, but they left in 2004.
Mark shared a long message on the band’s official Instagram account. “Hello and with love! It’s Mark here. Most of you know that I’ve had health issues for some time in the past. In fact, it all started three and a half years ago in 2020. It started in August when I had surgery. A few days after this surgery, I was in severe pain and was rushed to the emergency room.
“I ended up finishing that awful day in the ICU (intensive care unit), where I had developed sepsis, a serious, life-threatening infection due to complications from the surgery, and I had no problems. I was told that I needed immediate emergency surgery to resolve the issue. “That basically saved my life. I spent the next few months in hospital. It was during lockdown. For a few months, due to severe COVID-19 restrictions, I was with my fiance, who was 10 years old at the time. I was not allowed to have any visitors, including my daughter, who is 3 months old.It is a very difficult time, both physically and mentally, and having to spend a long time in the ICU is traumatic. Not even.”
Mark was discharged from hospital in December 2020, but had ongoing medical issues. “At the end of 2021, I fell ill in Newcastle before a concert and ended up going back to A&E, only to be told this time I had pneumonia. I was told I had to go straight home to recover and unfortunately missed the rest of the show. I was referred to a consultant and was told that I would need further surgery, which will take place in May 2022, meaning I will have to miss an additional tour with Wild Dreams. .
“Three months after the surgery, I tried my best to stick it out for you all and get back on tour, but unfortunately the physical strain of concerts and long distance travel was too much for me. I developed a large incisional hernia. “I was told I would need more surgery to fix it. This would be my fourth major surgery since this all started, but I didn’t have a choice.”
Mark said he now needs to focus on his recovery. “It is with great regret that I must temporarily take a break from touring with Westlife until I have had a chance to fully recover from the tumultuous journey I have been on personally,” he said. “Trust me, I wish things were different! Thank you so much for your support and understanding of me and my health over the past few years.”
Mark added: “To Shane, Kian and Nicky, I love you three and I know you guys are going to knock it out of the park. While you guys keep flying the Westlife flag. , I will be with you guys in spirit at every show,” he added. In the world. “
“But for now, I have to make the right decisions for my health and well-being, my family, and myself as a person. Don’t worry. Sending the most positive vibes in your direction. Please, I’ll take a look.” Coming soon beautiful people! Westlife forever! Love, Mark Feehily xx. ”
Kian, Nicky and Shane released a joint statement saying: “We would like to take this opportunity to wish our brother, best friend and bandmate Mark the time he needs to recover. I would like to send my blessings.”
“We believe very strongly that Mark has continued to be on stage despite going through a difficult period health-wise, and we are currently working on his recovery so that he can get back on stage fit and well. I fully respect that you have to stay focused.” Yes! In the meantime, we will continue to fly the Westlife flag higher than ever for you. ”
Fans have since sent support to Mark, with one writing: “Hi Mark, sending you lots of love and support during your recovery. Sorry you won’t be able to join us on your upcoming tour, but your health comes first.” writing. Take your time and recover. We look forward to your return here. A second read: “I am so sorry and heartbroken to hear of your death. We will miss you very much here in Brazil, as we have not set foot here for over 20 years.” Even more so. I pray for his soul to rest as soon as possible.” “Get well and get back to doing what you love soon. We love you, Mark! Take care!”
“Oh Mark, we are so shocked to hear this. Your health always comes first. Please, no apologies are necessary. We wish you a speedy recovery and we wish you all the best. Sending love,” another added. ”
Westlife will begin a world tour next month in Canada, with stops in the United States, Mexico and Brazil. Last year, Mark turned down Westlife shows in Denmark, Sweden, Mexico and Cardiff.