Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi was diagnosed with early stage lymphoma last week, and now Tony has issued a new statement thanking his friends and fans for their support.

In addressing his diagnosis Tony said, “Well, it’s not what I wanted for Christmas, that’s for sure, but now I can’t wait for the test results to come in and get going with the treatment.” 

And how will this affect the work that’s been started on the band’s new album? Well instead of working on the record in L-A, the rest of the group will go to the U-K, where Tony is, to do it. 

In his statement Tony says “It's really good that the guys are coming over so that we can continue working on the album as things are going great in the studio.”

Here’s the full text of Tony’s statement:

13th January 2012

My fans, friends & colleagues -

I just want to say how overwhelmed I am with all your messages of support, thank you so much.

Well it's not what I wanted for Christmas, that's for sure, but now I can't wait for the test results to come in and get going with the treatment.

It's really good that the guys are coming over so that we can continue working on the album as things are going great in the studio.

Well, not much else to say at this time, so thanks again.

Bless you all,

 Tony