Famed Edinburgh DJ JD Twitch shares 'untreatable brain tumour' diagnosis
A former Edinburgh resident DJ has shared the devastating news he has been diagnosed with an 'untreatable' brain tumour.
Keith McIvor, who is known as DJ and producer JD Twitch, played at the legendary legendary Pure club in Edinburgh in the 1990s.
He also helped run a popular club night 'Optimo (espacio) at Sub Club in Glasgow, shared the news with his fans, Glasgow Live reports.
In a heartbreaking message to his community, Keith: "Over the past few weeks I have received lots of enquiries about my health having missed several gigs since being admitted to the hospital. Following extensive tests I've been diagnosed with a brain tumour and I have been told my condition is untreatable.
"As you can imagine, I am currently trying to process this news and prioritising spending precious time with the people I love. I know this may be difficult news to receive through social media, and I'm sorry if it feels sudden or impersonal."
Adding that because his symptoms weren't immediately diagnosed, his health has declined quickly over just a few weeks, and the post felt like the "clearest and kindest way" to let people know what was happening.
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"I truly appreciate everyone's love and concern, it means the world to me," Keith added. "I would really love to hear from you, but it is too difficult for me to reply and process your communications directly. Please respect my privacy and space, and only contact me via the message board we have set up."
Keith confirmed that people can post their messages to the board on the website here: https://www.jdtwitch.com/, adding that it will allow him to receive the messages in a way that feels more manageable, with the help of his loved ones, who are supporting him through this difficult time.
Thanking everyone who supported him throughout his journey in music, from the early days of Pure in Edinburgh in the 90s and over the past 28 years of Optimo (Espacio), he confirmed that his fellow DJ Jonnie (J.G.Wilkes) will continue to take Optimo (Espacio) forward.
He said: "Jonnie and I have been lucky enough to play our music at countless clubs and festivals throughout the world and it has been one of the greatest honours of my life to make a career out of something I love. We have connected with so many beautiful souls through our shared passion for music.
"I want to say also that Watching Trees festival holds a very special place in my heart. It's a project I've loved being part of and curating, and I know the incredible WT crew will continue to help it grow into an even more magical and meaningful experience. I trust Jonnie implicitly to continue Optimo (Espacio). I know he will carry it forward with the same spirit and passion we always shared showing you, as ever, just how much 'we love your ears'."
Coming together after first meeting on a bus from Glasgow to Edinburgh some time in the mid 1990s, Keith and Jonnie went on to found arguably the city's most iconic club night - the pair have since travelled all over the globe, headlining countless clubs, festivals and events.
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In a statement about his long-term friend and collaborator, Johnnie stated he that it was "painful to put into words" how he felt, and said: "Keith and I have been through so much together in our 28 year partnership. We 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. I love you Keith. You inspired me like nobody else could and I'm so proud of what we've done together.
"I will continue Optimo (Espacio) with you always in my heart. The music will speak for both of us. Your anarchic spirit and your ferocious energy is all around me."
Our thoughts are with Keith and his friends and family at this time.
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