Despite the seemingly crippling twin concerns of being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and undergoing surgery for prostate cancer, Scottish comedian and national treasure Billy Connolly has vowed to keep on working, in what can only be described as the most determined move. Ever.

Billy ConnollyBIlly Connolly is staying positive.

A spokeswoman for the 70-year old comedian and actor said: “Billy Connolly recently underwent minor surgery in America after being diagnosed with the very early stages of prostate cancer. The operation was a total success, and Billy is fully recovered. In addition, Billy has been assessed as having the initial symptoms of Parkinson's disease, for which he is receiving the appropriate treatment.” (The Independent).

This might put someone on the back foot; perhaps stop working and enjoy the finer things in life, but clearly – for Connolly – working is the finer thing, and he’s decided to keep on doing what he does best: making people laugh.

“Billy has been assured by experts that the findings will in no way inhibit or affect his ability to work, and he will start filming a TV series in the near future, as well as undertaking an extensive theatrical tour of New Zealand in the new year.”

Billy Connolly BaftasSomething tells us this won't be BIlly Connolly's last Baftas.

He’s following in the footsteps of Michael J. Fox, who didn’t let his diagnosis of Parkinson’s stop him creating new material. He used his affliction on Curb Your Enthusiasm to great effect, combining with an ever-paranoid Larry David to devastating comic effect.

Connolly has previous admitted that he’s started to forget his lines – something that was rumored to stop Jack Nicholson career, forcing him to retire, but that was all hash. These old school talents don’t know when they’re beaten. Speaking about it, Connolly said: “This is f*****g terrifying. I feel like I’m going out of my mind.” We look forward to Connolly’s new work and wish him all the best.