Legendary Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, according to a statement released by the seminal heavy-metal band. This news comes just after Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward and Iommi announced they would be reuniting for a world tour, as well as releasing a new album in 2012.

Photo Credit: Aisha Humphrey

The band issued a statement wishing the guitar hero the best:

With the news that Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, his bandmates would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time. Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan–the “IRON MAN” of Rock & Roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.

The reunion tour and new album will be the first time the four have written and recorded together in over 33 years- since 1978’s Never Say Die!. The as of yet untitled new album is being recorded by legendary producer Rick Rubin in Los Angeles. As of now, the band is in the U.K. working with Iommi.