Rikki Rockett’s Battle with Cancer: A Journey of Resilience
Rikki Rockett, drummer of the rock band Poison, faced a daunting possibility during his fight against cancer. Doctors considered removing his tongue after initial treatments failed. Rockett recorded messages for his children to preserve the memory of his voice, fearing the loss of his ability to speak.
“I was recording pieces of information for my kids…I wanted them to know what I sounded like,” Rockett said.
Rockett’s memoir, Ghost Notes: My Life in Poison, provides an account of his rise to fame in the 1980s and his health challenges. During his treatment, Rockett’s weight plummeted to 161 pounds. He feared that losing his tongue could significantly shorten his life.
In 2015, Rockett’s persistent sore throat raised concerns. After antibiotics failed to resolve his symptoms, a doctor found suspicious signs during an examination. Rockett received a diagnosis of HPV-related throat cancer affecting the base of his tongue. He underwent radiation and chemotherapy, but progress was minimal.
“I couldn’t eat solid food anymore…Eventually, I couldn’t eat or drink anything at all,” Rockett recounted.
Facing the prospect of tongue removal, Rockett explored his options. An experimental drug combination offered hope. Rockett participated in a clinical trial at UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and experienced remarkable improvement.
By mid-2016, scans revealed a dramatic reduction of his cancer, eventually leading to remission. Despite successful treatment, Rockett encountered further health concerns. He was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a translocation between chromosomes BCR-ABL linked to the Philadelphia chromosome.
The hematologist reassured Rockett of the treatable nature of CML. Rockett started new medication and achieved remission. His medical team, Rockett says, saved his life. Although he experiences lasting effects such as dry mouth, he remains cancer-free a decade later.
“Sometimes my voice gets rough…But I’m cancer-free, and I’ve been cancer-free for 10 years,” Rockett noted.
Rockett’s memoir encourages perseverance and resilience. He remains active with his band, Rockett Mafia, and values the time spent with his children.
“I want my kids to see me…I got that wish,” Rockett smiled.
His story underscores the importance of fighting for loved ones and seizing each day.