Walter received a liver transplant after nearly facing death in 2014. He now feels like a new man and has immense gratitude for his supporters, his donor and the medical community who gave him a second chance at life.
Recognizing that liver disease is a 'silent killer' and many people are unaware of it until it is too late, he has become a Patron of the Trust because he wants to help raise awareness, much needed funding and encourage everyone to ensure that their loved ones know their wishes regarding becoming a donor. Walter is supporting the Trust in his upcoming November UK tour.
His new album Battle Scars, released on Provogue/Mascot Label Group chronicles his battle with liver failure. Walter found out that he had liver disease in 2013. His health deteriorated and he almost died. He spent a month in intensive care and then a further five months on a liver ward first waiting for a transplant and then recovering after surgery. His fans - many of them from England - used the internet to support Walter and help him raise $250,000 needed to help towards his medical bills for his liver transplant in 2014.
Liver disease is currently the third commonest cause of premature death in the UK – more than 12 million of us are at risk of liver disease yet we have very few resources compared with other conditions.
Talking about his involvement with the trust, Walter opens up; "Liver disease almost cost me my life. The disease progressively drained me of my life force until I was on the verge of death. A miraculous liver transplant allowed me to survive and thrive once again. I owe my life to the research and development in the medical field around treatment of liver diseases. I am happy to work with the British Liver Trust to promote awareness about the silent killer among us. I am thrilled because new treatments are emerging at the moment, and to help raise awareness around this, and to empower people to seek treatment, is something I feel privileged to do."
At the end of each of each show on the tour, there will be leaflets at the merchandise booth with more information, where Walter will also be signing records.
Walter will be touring the UK on the following dates:
Tues 17 November – Stockton, Arc - TICKETS
Weds 18 November – Glasgow, ABC - TICKETS
Fri 20 November – Holmfirth, Picturedrome - TICKETS
Sat 21 November – London, Forum - TICKETS
Tues 24 November - Leamington, Assembly - TICKETS
Weds 25 November – Frome, Cheese & Grain - TICKETS