Arthur Lee is apparently suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A post to said effect appeared on Love and Lee fan site LoveWithArthurLee.com.
According to reports elsewhere, Lee has already undergone three weeks of treatment, and it's looking likely that he'll face a bone marrow transplant operation in the coming weeks.
Friends of the singer are arranging a benefit concert, to be held in Los Angeles, as Lee is uninsured. His medical bills are said to run to over $100,000. Venues including the Avalon and El Rey Theatre are under consideration, with Calexico among the acts approached to appear.
"We are looking for artists to perform a few of Arthur's songs that capture the spirit and magic of Arthur Lee and Love," said organiser Liz Garo.