Optimo’s JD Twitch diagnosed with brain tumour: “My condition is untreatable”

JD Twitch, who makes up one half of Scottish duo Optimo (Espacio), has shared a health update, revealing that he has been diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Real name Keith McIvor, the Glasgow-hailing DJ broke the news on Instagram this morning (July 3), telling friends and fans that his condition is “untreatable”.

“Over the past few weeks I have received lots of enquiries about my health having missed several gigs since being admitted to hospital,” he explained.

“I know this may be difficult news to receive through social media, and I'm sorry if it feels sudden or impersonal. My symptoms weren't immediately diagnosed, and my health declined very quickly over just a few weeks.”

McIvor said that, due to the situation’s “rapid progression”, he has been unable to share the news personally with “everyone I care about”, writing: “This feels like the clearest and kindest way to let you know what's happening.”

He went on to ask that friends and fans share their messages via his website. “I would really love to hear from you, but it is too difficult for me to reply and process your communications directly,” he wrote.

“Please respect my privacy and space, and only contact me via the message board we have set up. This will allow me to receive your messages in a way that feels more manageable, with the help of my loved ones, who are supporting me through this difficult time.”

McIvor also thanked everyone for supporting his lengthy DJ career to date, “from the early days of Pure in Edinburgh in the ‘90s and through the past 28 years of Optimo (Espacio)”.

“I trust Jonnie implicitly to continue Optimo (Espacio),” he said. “I know he will carry it forward with the same spirit and passion we always shared.”

Jonnie Wilkes, AKA J.G. Wilkes, also shared his thoughts in the same post, writing: “It is too painful to put into words what I really feel. [Keith and I] are connected in a way that perhaps only he and I can understand. I do know, however, that if you ever heard us play together then you will have realised how deep that connection is.“

Read the full post below, and leave a message for Keith McIvor here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter