Introduction to Michael Bolton’s Battle with Brain Cancer
This originally appeared on E! Online. Michael Bolton is determined to go the distance. More than a year after the 72-year-old shared his brain tumor diagnosis — which he’s since confirmed to be glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer — Bolton is opening up about his journey with the disease.
The Diagnosis and Treatment
“You’re reaching into your resources and your resolve in a way that you never would have thought,” he told People in an interview published April 30. “Succumbing to the challenge is not an option. You’re really quickly drawn into a duel. I guess that’s the way you find out what you’re made of.” After undergoing emergency surgery in December 2023 — which removed the entirety of the tumor — Bolton has since undergone a second brain surgery due to an infection, as well as radiation and chemotherapy treatment, which he finished in October. He undergoes MRIs every two months to monitor for tumor recurrence, and his most recent scan, according to the outlet, looked clear.
Staying Positive
Throughout this, he’s asked doctors not share his prognosis with him, as he prefers to remain positive.
“I find comfort in general more easily,” he said. “[The whole experience] gives me a heightened sense of appreciation. It’s unthinkable for it to be okay not to make the most of your life. I think we develop capabilities and problem management, and we learn how to make the best out of a bad situation.” He continued, “You have to be a cheerleader for yourself.”
Reflections on Life and Legacy
The experience has also changed the way the singer — who is dad to daughters Isa, Holly and Taryn, through whom he has six grandchildren — thinks about the legacy he wishes to leave behind. One that goes beyond the concrete legacy he’s already created through his music. “How do I give things that they can take forward?” he reflected about his daughters. “Life lessons, love, any kind of validation that I can give — I want to be on the right side of that so they feel great about who they are.” He added, “It’s a reality of mortality. Suddenly a new light has gone on that raises questions, including, ‘Am I doing the best that I can do with my time?’”
Determination to Keep Going
And for the two-time Grammy winning artist, he’s determined to make sure the time he has left is as long as possible. “I want to keep going. I feel there’s still a lot to do on the fight side,” he explained. “I got a title for a song: ‘Ain’t Going Down Without a Fight.’” And his family will be there every step of the way. As Taryn noted, “We’re in this together, and that’s it.”
Conclusion
Michael Bolton’s battle with glioblastoma has been a challenging and life-altering experience. Despite the difficulties he has faced, he remains determined to stay positive and make the most of his life. His story serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges, and his legacy will continue to be felt through his music and the lessons he has passed down to his family.
FAQs
- Q: What type of brain cancer does Michael Bolton have?
A: Michael Bolton has glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. - Q: What treatments has Michael Bolton undergone for his brain cancer?
A: Michael Bolton has undergone emergency surgery, a second brain surgery due to an infection, radiation, and chemotherapy treatment. - Q: How often does Michael Bolton undergo MRIs to monitor for tumor recurrence?
A: Michael Bolton undergoes MRIs every two months to monitor for tumor recurrence. - Q: What is the current status of Michael Bolton’s health?
A: According to the latest scan, Michael Bolton’s health is looking clear, but he continues to undergo regular check-ups to monitor for any changes. - Q: How has Michael Bolton’s experience with brain cancer affected his perspective on life?
A: Michael Bolton’s experience with brain cancer has given him a heightened sense of appreciation for life and has made him more determined to make the most of his time.
