Rikki Rockett’s Battle Against Cancer and His Journey to Recovery

Poison drummer Rikki Rockett faced a daunting challenge as he battled cancer. Doctors considered the possibility of removing his tongue after chemotherapy and radiation failed to cure him. During this difficult time, Rockett began recording messages for his children. He wanted them to recognize his voice and hear his thoughts as they grew up.

Rockett, whose weight dropped to 161 pounds during his treatment, feared he might not survive much longer if his tongue was removed. He anticipated needing a feeding tube and worried about his life expectancy. Despite some people recovering after such procedures, Rockett doubted his chances.

For more on Rockett’s journey, his memoir “Ghost Notes: My Life in Poison” is now available. Rockett has been cancer-free for a decade. His memoir covers his rise to fame during the ’80s and his intense health battle.

Rockett’s Cancer Diagnosis

In 2015, Rockett and his family had sore throats. While his family recovered with prescribed antibiotics, Rockett’s symptoms persisted. A doctor’s examination revealed something suspicious in his throat, leading to a biopsy. Rockett was diagnosed with HPV-related throat cancer, affecting the base of his tongue.

Despite receiving radiation and chemotherapy, Rockett’s condition worsened. He couldn’t eat solid food and struggled with significant weight loss, only able to consume liquids.

Experimental Treatment Success

Rockett’s treatment initially failed, leading doctors to consider removing his tongue. However, he opted to participate in a clinical trial at UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center. The trial involved a combination of pembrolizumab and epacadostat. Remarkably, Rockett was declared free of throat cancer in July 2016. The first PET scan showed that 90% of the cancer was gone. By the second scan, it was completely gone.

Rockett’s doctor was surprised by the treatment’s effectiveness but recommended continued monitoring to prevent recurrence.

Facing Additional Health Challenges

While Rockett received positive news regarding his throat cancer, he later faced another challenge, a diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). CML is associated with the Philadelphia chromosome, an acquired genetic abnormality. Rockett’s hematologist reassured him that CML is treatable and sometimes curable.

Rockett began new medication, which has kept his CML in remission. He credits his medical team for saving his life and remains thankful for the opportunity to see his children grow.

Living After Cancer

A decade after battling throat cancer, Rockett focuses on what he gained rather than what he lost. Despite lasting effects like a dry mouth and rough voice, he values the time he has with his children. Rockett continues performing with his band, Rockett Mafia, driven by a desire for his children to see him on stage.

Rockett believes his memoir will inspire readers to persevere. He remains committed to living life fully and cherishing every moment with his family.