Ronnie Wood’s 2017 Small-Cell Lung Cancer: The Surgery, Chemo, and Art That Pulled Him Through

Ronnie Wood was diagnosed with small-cell lung cancer in May 2017 after a routine check-up. Small-cell is the most aggressive form of lung cancer, but it was caught early. Wood underwent a lobectomy — removal of the upper lobe of his left lung — followed by six rounds of chemotherapy. His doctors gave him the all-clear by early 2018.

Throughout treatment, Wood turned to his painting practice every day. He said that focusing on art kept his mind off the nausea and fear, calling it “the best medicine.” During recovery he completed dozens of works, many of which were later exhibited. The creative routine, he believed, was as crucial as the medical protocol in getting him through.