Founding Widespread Panic guitarist Mike Houser confirmed rumors about his failing health today in a post on his band's Web site. Though the post remained vague -- stating only that he has been diagnosed with "a terminal form of cancer" -- it is generally understood that Houser is suffering from pancreatic cancer.

According to the statement, Houser is resting at home in Athens, Georgia, with his family. "In the words of Lou Gehrig," he wrote, "'though some of you may have thought I have caught a bad break, I feel like the luckiest man in the world.'"

Houser has missed five recent shows on Panic's summer tour "due to health reasons," during which time Kudzu Kings guitarist George McConnell has filled in. "I have hopes of playing again soon, although I can't say for sure when or where," Houser wrote, "and I hope to see you all there."

Widespread Panic had previously refused to make any official comment on the matter to protect Houser's privacy, leaving it to him to handle the situation on his own terms. At press time, the band's management and members could not be reached for further comment.

Widespread Panic tour dates:

7/16: Little Rock, AR, Riverfest
7/18-20: Austin, TX, The Backyard
7/21: The Woodlands, TX, C.W. Mitchell Pavilion
7/24: Los Angeles, Greek Theater
7/26-28: Berkeley, CA, Greek Theater
8/17-18: Englewood, CO, Fiddler's Green Amphitheater

ROBIN A. ROTHMAN
(July 16, 2002)