Vocalist Michael Sadler, frontman of Canadian progressive music icons SAGA, shared that he is battling a rare muscle-invasive cancer, which occurs in only 3-5% of cases, blabbermouth.net reported.
„The surgery I underwent successfully removed the cancer and my focus is on staying healthy. Going forward, I am determined to reduce stress and live purposefully — to make music whenever I can, and to cherish time with family and friends.
Sadler has spoken openly about his battle with cancer, while also revealing that he recently lost his sister to the same disease and that his brother has leukemia.
“In April, just before boarding a cruise ship, I learned that my cancer was incurable and incurable. Although I am currently stable and otherwise feeling well, this news has turned my life on a more introspective and purposeful path. In this autumn of my life, I have been reflecting on all the time I have wasted and the precious moments I have left – what to do, who to spend them with, and how to spend them. I am learning to live in this uncertain space, appreciating every moment I am given.
I am deeply aware of my responsibilities and plan to look forward in the best way possible. I'm working on leaving a musical legacy for both the band and completing my new projects and, of course, keeping my promises to my family."
SAGA has released nearly two dozen albums to date, the latest of which, “Symmetry“, was released in March 2021.
The band formed in 1977 in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, and released their first album in 1978. Since then, SAGA has sold ten million albums and played in over 20 countries to over 15 million people.
For over 45 years, SAGA has been a leader in musical innovation and audience engagement. Their hits include "Don't Be Late", "Wind Him Up", "On The Loose", "The Flyer" and "Scratching The Surface".
SAGA is widely recognized as one of the most influential progressive rock bands in Canada and around the world. Its lineup includes Michael Sadler, Dusty Chesterfield, Ian Crichton, Jim Gilmour and Mike Thorne.