Rick Davies, Supertramp Co-Founder, Dies of Multiple Myeloma: What to Know About the Disease

Rick Davies, the co-founder and keyboardist of Supertramp, has died at 81. He died on Long Island after a protracted battle against multiple myeloma, a kind of blood cancer. He was the man behind the songs like ‘Goodbye Stranger’ and ‘Bloody Well Right.’ The news of the death was confirmed by his band. He fought the disease, as he even cancelled an intended European tour around 2015, around the time of his diagnosis. After his death, his warmth and music live on.

Rick Davies’ Cause of Death

Rick Davies died after battling multiple myeloma, which is a cancer of the blood, for more than a decade. In 2015, he was diagnosed with the disease, and this condition compelled the band to cancel a larger European tour. However, Davies eventually succumbed to health problems despite all the aggressive therapies that he had undergone, such as chemotherapy. The cancer had spread to his bone marrow and blood cells, hence he became slow and could no longer carry on with the touring. Davies used the last days at home on Long Island so the family and close friends could spend time there.

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What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that develops in the plasma cells, which are a form of white blood cell located in the bone marrow. Such cells play a role in the fight against infections by the creation of antibodies. But in multiple myeloma, the abnormal plasma cell proliferates uncontrollably, pushing out the normal blood cells. This may cause you to have bone damage, anaemia, weakened immunity and other severe medical issues. Older adults are the primary targets of the disease, and the disease often occurs in a gradual yet constant progression.

What Are The 5 Signs of Multiple Myeloma?

Recognising multiple myeloma early can be challenging, but here are five common signs to watch for:

1. Bone pain: Especially in the back, ribs, or hips, caused by bone damage.
2. Fatigue: Because of a low count of red blood cells (anaemia).
3. Frequent infections: It becomes easier to contract infections because there is a weakened immune system.
4. Easy bruising or bleeding: Caused by low platelet counts.
5. High calcium levels: Symptoms include increased thirst, nausea, and confusion because damaged bones release calcium into the blood.

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Conclusion

Rick Davies leaves behind a powerful musical legacy through his work with Supertramp. His struggle with multiple myeloma highlights the challenges of living with this tough blood cancer. While treatments have improved, multiple myeloma remains a serious disease that requires attention and awareness. Davies’ story reminds us how important it is to understand and support those battling cancer every day.