Grammy Award-winning singer Michael Bolton says he has a newfound appreciation for life after being diagnosed with glioblastoma, an incurable form of brain cancer.
“I think we develop capabilities and problem management, and we learn how to make the best out of a bad situation. You have to be a cheerleader for yourself.”
In December 2023, Bolton underwent emergency surgery to remove a tumor in his brain and was subsequently diagnosed with the highly aggressive disease.
Bolton took to Instagram the following month to update his fans and followers about his health challenges, revealing he would be taking a temporary break from touring to focus on his recovery.
“I am beyond grateful for all the love and support you have so generously shown me through the years. Know that I’m keeping your positive messages in my heart, and I’ll give you more updates as soon as I can.”
That same month, the “When a Man Loves a Woman” singer was forced to have a second procedure on his brain after developing a post-operative infection.
He completed his rounds of radiation and chemotherapy treatment in October of that year and must now undergo regular MRI scans to monitor his brain for tumor regrowth.
According to the Ivy Brain Tumor Center, approximately 90 percent of people who are treated for glioblastoma will experience a recurrence of the disease, with the vast majority seeing their tumors return after two years of their initial treatment.
“My hope in sharing this part of my journey is that it might offer comfort to other families facing similar challenges, and perhaps even inspire those navigating their own adversity,” he wrote.
“I also want to thank all of you for the love, support, and patience you’ve shown over this past year. I’ve drawn strength from your encouragement, and I continue to draw strength from it every day as I move forward on this journey.”