Country music star Toby Keith, who battled stomach cancer, had a triumphant night at the People’s Choice Country Awards, where he received the inaugural Country Icon Award and performed for the first time since his diagnosis.

Keith’s stomach cancer diagnosis in 2021 was disclosed publicly in June 2022 after a year of treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. On the red carpet at the awards, he shared an update, saying, “I feel pretty good. It’s a little bit of a roller coaster…I feel good today.”

Blake Shelton presented Keith with the award and performed one of Keith’s popular songs, ‘Who’s Your Daddy?’ During his acceptance speech, Keith expressed gratitude to his family, team, colleagues, and fans, thanking the almighty for his journey.

Keith’s performance of ‘Don’t Let the Old Man In,’ a song reflecting on aging and resilience, was emotional, with his wife, Tricia Lucus, visibly moved in the audience. He explained his song choice, saying it was fitting given his battle with cancer and his return to performing live.

In a recent health update, Keith mentioned that his tumor had shrunk by a third (33%) and his blood tests were showing improvement, providing hope for his ongoing battle with cancer.