Grammy-winning singer B.J. Thomas diagnosed with stage four lung cancer

Pop star B.J. Thomas has been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer.

Thomas issued a statement revealing the diagnosis.

“I just wanted to take this unique opportunity to share my gratitude to Gloria, my wonderful wife and my rock for over 53 years, my family, friends, and fans," he wrote.

"I’m so blessed to have had the opportunity to record and perform beautiful songs in pop, country, and gospel music, and to share those wonderful songs and memories around the world with millions of you. I ask all of you for your prayers during this time and that my music can live on with you.”

The five-time Grammy winning singer, whose hits include "Hooked on a Feeling," "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head," "I Just Can't Help Believing" and "(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song," is receiving treatment in a Texas health care facility and is hopeful for a complete recovery. .

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Thomas spoke to the Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network, in 2019 about the prospect of retiring someday.

"If I reach a point where I don’t feel like I’m performing as well, I guess that could happen," he said. "I am getting older; it's inevitable my throat is aging as well. Maybe there will come a time at some point, but you know as long as I'm really having fun and I still do have a major motivation to do it, I just want to do it."

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Thomas plans to continue to interact with industry colleagues and fans and remains optimistic about his availability to make public appearances.

Thomas earned his first Grammy at the 20th annual awards show for best inspirational performance with his song "Home Where I Belong." His most recent Grammy came in the same category in 1981 for his rendition of "Amazing Grace." In 2014, he was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame for "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head."