(Photo by Steven Lawton/FilmMagic)
Former Saved By The Bell star Dustin Diamond has begun his first round of chemotherapy to seek treatment for cancer.
A representative for Diamond confirmed to PEOPLE Diamond had started chemotherapy for stage 4 small cell carcinoma, which is a cancer that commonly occurs in the lungs but can also appear in the prostate or gastrointestinal tract.
According to NBC news, the second round of chemotherapy is being scheduled and Diamond will also begin physical therapy soon.
“Dustin is looking forward to spending more time with his girlfriend, playing his bass guitar/video games, as well as making videos for his fans on social media,” Diamond’s rep told the outlet.
A rep for Diamond confirmed his diagnosis last week and added that the star “is in a lot of pain.” Diamond’s team also announced the diagnosis on Facebook, which read: “At this time we can confirm that Dustin does have cancer. Dustin will disclose more information once it is available and a plan moving forward is made.”
“We ask everyone to respect Dustin’s privacy during this difficult time,” his team added. “All positivity and prayers are appreciated.”
It was confirmed earlier this month that Dustin had been hospitalized with a mysterious illness. “Dustin is in the hospital and the medical teams are doing tests to find out more,” a rep for Diamond said at the time. “Everyone is hoping for a speedy recovery.”