Credit: Adriano CamoleseHere’s some happy health news to report about Poison drummer Rikki Rockett. After being diagnosed with oral cancer over a year ago, the ’80s rocker has now been declared cancer-free by his doctors.
A statement issued this week by the 54-year-old musician’s rep explains that Rockett had undergone several months of experimental immunotherapy at Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health, which eradicated a tumor at the base of his tongue. Rikki participated in a clinical trial overseen by Dr. Ezra Cohen. The treatment, which only is available at a few U.S. medical centers, involves two drugs that remove the defenses cancers use to fight the immune system.
Rockett says he now wants to encourage other people with cancer who would like to avoid chemotherapy and radiation treatments to consider trying immunotherapy.
“My hope going forward is that by talking to other cancer patients, I might be able to lessen their pain and suffering,” explains Rockett. “I know from experience that chemotherapy and radiation are not fun. If I can help anyone else, it would help give reason to what I went through.”
According to the statement, Rikki has been feeling much better lately and has begun taking part in the activities he loves, including Brazilian jiu-jitsu and riding his motorcycle, as well as looking after his two children.
Rockett first broke the news about his diagnosis last week via a post on his blog. He also posted a photo on his Instagram page of him and Dr. Cohen along with the caption, “Because of this man, I am cancer free!!!”
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