"Mark had a subarachnoid hemorrhage and that is why he's still in a coma since Jan. 11, 2012 when he was rushed to the hospital. Mark is also fighting several other critical conditions, but is getting the very best care here in San Antonio from gifted and talented doctors. Please continue to keep Mark in your thoughts and prayers, I continue every day reading them to Mark! God hears all of us, ask for HIS goodness to heal Mark."

Reale formed Riot in 1975 and the band has enjoyed a successful career to this day, releasing their most recent album, 'Immortal Soul', at the end of last year.

Riot's current US tour is continuing without the band's founder. They played their first show without Reale on Wednesday in New York. The band said:

"While we are saddened by these developments, Riot's music has been Mark's lifeblood for over 30 years. We have struggled with idea of performing without him, and we are continuing to prepare with heavy hearts, but the entire Riot organization has agreed on the importance of bringing our music to the fans who have supported us for so long."

Fans wishing to send Reale personal messages can do so via this link: http://www.markreale.com/network/php/content/news.php?agbook=comment&gb_id=15