Singer Michael Bolton has spoken publicly for the first time since being diagnosed with glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, in 2023.

Bolton underwent emergency brain surgery in late 2023 and was diagnosed with glioblastoma following the procedure. During the surgery, doctors were able to remove the tumor completely, which happens in only 30-40% of cases, and in early 2024 Bolton underwent another operation due to an infection.

The singer, who has sold over 75 million albums, completed his radiation and chemotherapy in October last year. He now has to undergo tests every two months to make sure the tumor has not returned. However, glioblastoma usually returns in 90% of cases, so monitoring is vital.

In an interview with People, Bolton shared his battle with the terrible disease: "Giving up on the challenge is not an option. You quickly get into a duel. I think that's how you understand what you're made of. You tap into resources and determination you never knew you had."

"When you find yourself in a difficult situation, just knowing that you're not alone is very important," he continued. "It really helps people to know. It reminds them that they're not alone."

Bolton remains committed to his music career and plans to use his battle with cancer as inspiration for a song, revealing, "I want to keep going. I feel like there's still a lot to do in the fight. I have a song title: 'Ain't Going Down Without a Fight.'"

The star, who continues to meditate and play golf regularly, also said that his experience has given him "a heightened sense of gratitude" and that it is "unthinkable not to make the most of your life." | BGNES