According to TMZ, TLC is canceling their upcoming NY show because T-Boz (real name Tionne Watkins), is in the hospital. Watkins is reportedly suffering from an “abdominal blockage.” Despite initial thoughts, that she was dealing with food poisoning, it became more serious. “The doctor verified that this was not food poisoning, but an abdominal blockage. Tionne deeply regrets having to cancel these shows and extends her sincere apologies to all her fans and the event promoters,” the group said in a statement.
TMZ reports that Watkins is receiving around-the-clock care. She’s even gotten a CT scan to find out the severity of the blockage. She’s expected to be released on Sunday (Aug.25). However, that would mean some of the group will have to push some shows back. On a brighter note, TLC says it’ll make every effort to reschedule the canceled shows.
T-Boz’s Ongoing Health Crisis
As a child, T-Boz receives a diagnosis of sickle cell anemia. The National Institutes Of Health defines sickle cell disease as “a group of inherited red blood cell disorders that affect hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen through the body.” While normal, red blood cells are like discs and flexible, sickle cell, blood cells are more crescent-like. “These sickled red blood cells do not bend or move easily and can block blood flow to the rest of the body.”
In 2017, T-Boz told ABC what experiencing sickle cell was like firsthand. “The easiest way to describe it is oxygen isn’t getting to our vital organs,” Watkins said. “So, if it’s your legs, you can’t walk. Your arms, you can’t even hold a pencil and write … I went through so much.” She told the outlet that she didn’t want her diagnosis to define her. Watkins wants the world to remember TLC’s legacy and impact. “I just want to be remembered for the things that we really did in making a difference. The fun and good stuff, the lyrical content, making a difference, and making people feel better.”