Fuming Mouth frontman reveals cancer diagnosis and launches crowdfunder

Mark Whelan, frontman with Massachusetts metallers Fuming Mouth, has announced that he has been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, a form of blood cancer. Sharing the news in a Twitter post, Mark says that his illness is treatable, and that he’s currently undergoing chemotherapy.

“Hi everyone, I was diagnosed with cancer a few weeks ago,” he wrote. “I have acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A type of cancer that is treatable. We’ve already begun treatment and are working to beat this every day. It will surely be a hard road but I’m ready to face it.”

A Gofundme has been set up to help cover the cost of Mark’s medical bills. The band’s label, Triple B Records, have pledged to donate all proceeds from sales of Fuming Mouth records and merch in their webstore to the fundraiser until the goal is met.

Writing on the Gofundme page, Mark’s partner gave an update on his treatment.

"Mark has been transported to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, near Fenway in Boston, where he began induction chemotherapy treatment on November 26 2021.

"This is just the beginning of Mark’s fight against AML. He will require extensive treatment in the upcoming months while he is hospitalized.

"Mark is currently on state healthcare and much of what he will endure for treatment will not be covered by insurance. We are asking for donations to help lessen the massive financial blow of this incredibly devastating news. Anything counts and is deeply appreciated. It is highly unlikely that the goal amount will cover all of his medical bills, so any donation is welcome.”

Additionally, Mark’s treatment will require a bone marrow transplant. “This is a procedure that depends on the availability of donors,” reads the info on the Gofundme page. “ If you’re able, please consider joining the bone marrow donor registry. It’s free and can help save someone’s life. Find more information here: https://bethematch.org"

Everyone at Kerrang! wishes Mark all the best for a successful course of treatment.