Chad Gilbert Says He’s Grateful for His Family amid Aggressive Stage 4 Cancer: ‘I Got My Dream’ (Exclusive)

Chad Gilbert, the renowned singer and guitarist from the band New Found Glory, has recently opened up about his ongoing battle with cancer. Diagnosed with stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma, Gilbert has faced immense health challenges since his initial adrenal cancer diagnosis in 2021. His wife, Lisa Cimorelli, has noted that this new diagnosis significantly complicates Gilbert’s already precarious prognosis, despite previous treatments proving effective.

In February, while celebrating the launch of New Found Glory’s twelfth album, “Listen Up!”, Gilbert was plagued by unsettling symptoms that marked a shift in his condition. At the age of 45, he realised something was amiss when he began experiencing unprecedented weakness in his left leg. Nevertheless, he pushed through to perform at the album release show, requiring only a chair during his set. Though the Nashville performance was a success, the night ended on a somber note when he took a tumble while using a walker to navigate the stairs at home.

A subsequent doctor’s appointment led to alarming news for Gilbert and his family. Scans revealed he had three brain tumours, one of which was as large as a walnut. Up until this point, Gilbert had been managing a diagnosis of metastatic pheochromocytoma, a rare form of adrenal cancer. However, the discovery of adrenocortical carcinoma—originating from the adrenal cortex—meant a stark shift in his prognosis, with doctors giving him a lifespan of only six months to a year.

Facing this life-altering diagnosis, Gilbert underwent emergency brain surgery to remove the largest tumour, alongside a course of radiation to tackle the smaller, inoperable tumours. Cimorelli expressed her disbelief over the rapid decline in Gilbert’s health. “Just two weeks ago, he didn’t even need a walker,” she recounted. “It went downhill so fast.”

Prior to this latest setback, Gilbert had been stable thanks to a rigorous treatment plan that included immunotherapy to target cancerous growths in his spine, lungs, and stomach. Many of these tumours had been surgically removed, leading him to believe he had gained the upper hand on his illness. However, as Cimorelli pointed out, while previous treatments were effective in managing tumours throughout his body, they were unable to penetrate the protective barrier around the brain.

In a recent Instagram update, Gilbert shared insights from his physician, who described his situation as “not a fatal blow” but rather “the beginning of a new chapter.” His resilience amid adversity has deeply impressed Cimorelli, who admires his calm acceptance of the challenges they face. “Even during difficult conversations with doctors, he’s so brave, and I’m there freaking out, but he reassures me,” she remarked.

Reflecting on the joys of his life, Gilbert expressed gratitude for fulfilling his dreams of a successful musical career and a loving family. He proudly spoke of his four-year-old daughter, Lily, who, amidst her father’s health struggles, has embraced her role as a caregiver while remaining blissfully unaware of the full gravity of the situation. “She loves being daddy’s nurse,” he said, noting that Lily often brings her play set to help him with check-ups.

Although Gilbert admits to temporarily putting down his guitar following his brain surgery, he continues to find solace in songwriting. “I can’t stop writing songs in my head,” he revealed, acknowledging that he hopes to return to the stage with New Found Glory when they perform in Nashville this June. While he may have to take a seat during performances, his passion for music remains undiminished.

Throughout his journey, Gilbert remains committed to using his experiences to inspire others facing difficult circumstances. He finds purpose in connecting with those who may relate to his struggles, stating, “As painful as it is, I’m able to inspire people going through really tough things in their lives.” With his family and music at the forefront, Gilbert continues to navigate this challenging chapter with hope and determination.