Optimo’s JD Twitch, real name Keith McIvor, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour.
The much-loved Scottish DJ, who forms one-half of the DJ duo Optimo (Espacio), shared details of his diagnosis on Instagram earlier today (July 3), adding that he will be prioritising spending time with loved ones going forward.
“I know this may be difficult news to receive through social media, and I’m sorry if it feels sudden or impersonal,” McIvor’s Instagram post read. “My symptoms weren’t immediately diagnosed, and my health declined very quickly over just a few weeks. Because of how rapidly everything progressed, I haven’t been able to share this news personally with everyone I care about, so this feels like the clearest and kindest way to let you know what’s happening.”
JG Wilkes, who runs the Optimo party series with McIvor and forms the other half of the Optimo (Espacio) duo, also shared his own statement. “It’s too painful to put into words what I really feel,” he said. “I don’t know if I even have the words. Keith and I have been through so much together in our 28-year partnership. We’re connected in a way that perhaps only he and I can understand. I do know however, that if you ever heard us play together then you will have realised how deep that connection is.”
McIvor’s diagnosis has forced him to miss recent Optimo (Espacio) gigs, including sets at Glastonbury and the duo’s own Watching Trees festival. Referencing this, McIvor said: “I want to say also that Watching Trees festival holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a project I’ve loved being part of and curating, and I know the incredible crew will continue to help it grow into an even more magical and meaningful experience.”
McIvor and Wilkes launched Optimo as a weekly Sunday-night party series at Glasgow’s Sub Club in 1997. It quickly picked up iconic status in the city and went on to influence a number of other DJs based there thanks to its no holds barred music policy. The parties ended in 2010, but McIvor and Wilkes have continued to tour together as Optimo (Espacio) in the years since.
