In a candid interview with Rock Titan’s Scotty J, Flotsam and Jetsam guitarist Michael Gilbert opened up about a life-changing experience he’d never shared publicly before: his battle with colon cancer 25 years ago.
“Nobody knows this,” Gilbert revealed, “but a long time ago, I had some serious stomach issues. It turned out I had full-blown colon cancer, and they ended up removing my entire large intestine.”
He described a concerning encounter with a new doctor who questioned if such surgery was even possible. Frustrated by the lack of knowledge and care, Gilbert switched doctors. “That guy saved my life, for sure,” he said, crediting his surgeon with a successful operation and reversal procedure.
The experience left a deep mark on him. “There was a time I didn’t think I’d make another week,” Gilbert recalled. “It definitely gave me a whole different outlook on life.”
While hesitant to claim expertise, he urged others to prioritize preventative measures. “I’m not sure what causes it,” he admitted, “but I do know cancer is a real pandemic. Get checked out, everyone, for sure.”
Gilbert’s story highlights the importance of early detection and finding competent medical professionals. It also serves as a reminder to cherish life’s precious moments.
In addition to his battle with cancer, Gilbert also discussed his time away from Flotsam and Jetsam. He explained that the band’s hiatus was due to various factors, including health issues and personal commitments. However, he expressed his excitement about the band’s reunion and their ongoing projects.
