Deep Purple were forced to cancel two European performances earlier this week. Initially announcing that the cancelations stemmed from "health issues," drummer Ian Paice has provided a clearer picture, issuing a statement detailing the mini-stroke he suffered.

Paice is one of rock's iron men, the equivalent of Cal Ripken or Brett Favre, and had never missed a single Deep Purple show since the band's inception nearly 50 years ago in 1968. This week, his marvelous streak came to an end when the rock icons nixed their shows in Sweden and Denmark. The drummer's full statement (issued from the band's Facebook page) can be seen below, where he describes the realization that something was wrong and his trajectory over the oncoming weeks, promising to return to the road soon.

MESSAGE FROM IAN PAICE
JUNE 16, 2016
To all the people who were expecting to see Deep Purple in Sweden and Denmark this week I would like to let you know the reason the shows were not possible and also to stop all the speculation and rumours.
On the morning of the 14th of June I woke up to find that the right side of my body was feeling numb and I could not control my right hand and fingers.
So I had myself admitted to hospital where I was diagnosed with having suffered a 'mini stroke', or TIA. The hospital staff in Stockholm were amazing and started my treatment straight away.
After both CT and MIR scans there was found to be no serious or permanent damage. As of this moment all I am suffering is a slightly numb right side of the face a tingling sensation in my right hand. My dexterity in the hand is coming back quickly and I fully expect to re-commence touring next month.
So now I have a set of tablets which have to be taken every day to ensure it doesn’t happen again!.
So sorry for not being able to play for you.
And I’m sorry for myself!
These are the first shows I have missed with DP since its formation in 1968.
Thanks to all the people who have shown concern and sent their best wishes.
-Ian Paice.

In April earlier this year, Deep Purple were inducted as part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 2015. The members of the MK I, MK II and MK III lineups were all inducted save for original bassist Nick Simper. As notable tensions exist between singer Ian Gillan and former guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, the legendary axeman did not take part in the induction ceremony.

See Where Ian Paice Ranks Among the Top 50 Hard Rock + Metal Drummers of All Time

Deep Purple's Glenn Hughes Talks Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction

More From Loudwire