UPDATE (7/9/13 8:40 am): According to his sister-in-law, Randy Travis had heart surgery the Monday (July 8) following his admission to the hospital in critical condition.

"We have been told he has had surgery," Teresa Traywick, the wife of Randy's brother Ricky Traywick, said. "Our prayers are going out to him because my husband just had a heart attack last year, so it is in their family."

The Grammy-winning country singer, 54, born Randy Traywick, is "suffering from complications of recently acquired viral cardiomyopathy," a rep has said. Viral cardiomyopathy is a weakening of the heart muscles due to infection.

"Their mother passed away at an early age with her heart, so it is like these boys are following right in their footsteps," Teresa Traywick said. "My prayers are with them. That's all I can say right now."

Travis had been scheduled to play the Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood, S.D., on Wednesday, but that show has been cancelled.

Meanwhile, friends and fans have been offering messages of support.

"Sending a get well message out to my buddy @randytravis tonight. Thinking of you and wishing you a speedy recovery," singer Tracy Lawrence wrote on Twitter.

Lance Armstrong: "Thoughts go out to @randytravis. Heal up soon my man! One of country music's greatest voices ever."

Original report:

The Associated Press is reporting that Randy Travis has been hospitalized in Dallas, Texas and is in critical condition due to complications from viral cardiomyopathy.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, "Cardiomyopathy is the term for any disease of the heart muscle that interferes with the heart’s ability to pump blood with sufficient force." Travis' viral condition was caused by an infection in his heart.

A news release from the singer's publicist says Travis was admitted to the hospital Sunday (July 7) in Dallas. The details about the severity of Travis' case were released.

This hospitalization comes at a time when Travis seemed ready to bounce back after a number of legal and personal struggles. He'd pledged to give up drinking late last year, and he looked better than ever at the 2013 CMT Music Awards in June.

Randy Travis is best known for his early country music hits such as 'Forever and Ever Amen' and 'Wooden Crosses.' Travis' new song 'Tonight I'm Playing Possum' with Joe Nichols received warm critical praise, in addition to a positive reception from fans.

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