CLEVELAND — When Donnie Iris talks about his recent battle with bladder cancer, his voice is matter-of-fact, tinged with gratitude.
"They did some tests on me, and sure enough it was bladder cancer," Iris recalls. "(They) ended up removing my bladder and I have what's called an ostomy, and (it) basically saved my life."
Though born in Pittsburgh, Iris has long been considered a Northeast Ohio music institution. His connection to the region runs deep, especially through his band members and his musical history.
"I want everybody in Cleveland to know that even though I'm from Pittsburgh, Cleveland is my second home," he explained to us. "It will always be my second home and I love it there."
Chemotherapy and immunotherapy were challenging, but Iris remained focused on his ultimate goal: returning to performing.
"I just want to get out and do as much playing as I possibly can," he said "I go out as much as I can. I have a good time, and basically that's where I'm at at this point in my life. It's great. I'm just so thankful. I know I could have died, so every day is a bonus."
His upcoming Dec. 7 show at MGM Northfield Park represents more than just another concert. It's a celebration of survival, surrounded by a band that feels like family — including Paul Goll and Mark Avsec from Cleveland, Mark's nephew Austin Avsec, and Marty Lee from North Canton. Members of the Vitale family — Joe Sr. of Joe Walsh and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young fame and Joe Jr. (both of Canton) — will also be on hand.
"I just want to do as much playing as I possibly can," Iris reiterated. Now cancer free and approaching his 82nd birthday, he's living those words.
For those tracking his remarkable musical journey, Iris earned a gold record in 1970 for "The Rapper" with the Jaggerz, joined Wild Cherry in 1978, and founded Donnie Iris & The Cruisers in 1979 with Mark Avsec, creating hits like "Ah! Leah!"
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