TORONTO — One of the most remarkable things about Ronnie Hawkins is that he’s alive.
The 78-year-old rockabilly legend known as “The Hawk” was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2003 and given three months to live.
“They couldn’t operate because it was on an artery or something,” Hawkins recalled during an appearance on Global’s The Morning Show.
Like any good rock musician, Hawkins decided to go out with a bang.
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“I had all my friends come out to my house and we started drinking and we did everything we’ve ever done,” he said. “I think it scared the cancer away.”
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Hawkins has said he beat cancer using alternative medicines and herbal remedies.
Today, the Juno-winning musician with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame says he’s feeling good.
“I’ve got one foot in the grave and the other in a puddle of WD-40,” he quipped. “But I’m rocking on.”
Hawkins isn’t doing full concerts anymore but he’s sharing his music and stories with fans in Ontario in a show called An Intimate Evening with Ronnie Hawkins. It includes stops in Burlington, Brantford, Windsor, London, Lindsay, Toronto and Belleville.
How would the man who once hosted John Lennon at his home and performed with icons like Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis like to be remembered?
“Good looks and a beautiful body,” he replied.
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