Chad Gilbert, the lead guitarist for the renowned punk rock band New Found Glory, has delivered a heartfelt health update after undergoing a critical brain surgery procedure to remove three tumors. The 45-year-old musician shared the details of his medical journey in an emotional Instagram post on Monday, revealing the sudden onset of symptoms that led to his hospitalization last month.
Sudden Health Crisis and Emergency Response
Gilbert recounted that on February 20th, while performing a show in Nashville, he began experiencing significant difficulties controlling the movements of his left hand. His condition rapidly deteriorated over the following days, with his left leg weakening progressively and causing him to stumble and fall on multiple occasions. By February 23rd, the situation had become so severe that he was rushed to the emergency room.
A CT scan conducted at the hospital revealed the alarming presence of three new tumors that had developed in his brain, prompting immediate medical intervention. The guitarist underwent successful brain surgery on February 27th to address these growths, and he has been recovering in hospital care ever since.
Positive Recovery Signs and Medical Perspective
In his social media update, Gilbert reported encouraging progress in his rehabilitation. "I regained function of my left hand immediately," he wrote, expressing gratitude for the swift improvement. He shared a particularly uplifting perspective from his radiation oncologist, who described the situation as "not a fatal blow and not the end of your story, just the beginning of a new chapter."
While acknowledging that his recovery has been "bumpy at times," Gilbert emphasized that he is feeling much better now and getting stronger by the day. He extended heartfelt thanks to the numerous supporters who have stood by his family during this challenging period, including his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and their four-year-old daughter.
Longstanding Health Battle and Cancer History
This recent brain surgery represents the latest chapter in Gilbert's ongoing health struggles. The musician first revealed in 2021 that he had been diagnosed with a rare form of adrenal gland cancer known as metastatic pheochromocytoma. This aggressive cancer subsequently spread to his spine and lungs, necessitating intense chemotherapy treatments.
In August 2025, Gilbert announced that he had resumed radiation treatments after doctors discovered a cancerous spot in his back. His health journey has been marked by multiple medical interventions as he continues to battle this persistent condition.
Musical Legacy and Supportive Community
Gilbert has been an integral part of New Found Glory since the band's formation in 1997, contributing significantly to their punk rock legacy. His personal life has also drawn public attention through previous marriages to Eisley rocker Sherri Dupree in 2007 and Paramore star Hayley Williams from 2016 to 2017.
The health update, shared as a collaborative post with his wife, generated an outpouring of support from fellow musicians and fans alike:
- Singer Cassadee Pope commented: "You're a warrior. Sending healing and love your way."
- Emo band Dashboard Confessional simply wrote: "I love you bud."
- Singer LOLO added: "strongest guy i know. love u."
Gilbert concluded his message with a promise of future communication, stating: "More stories to come when my brain is working well again. Love you all and am looking forward to sharing more music and fun with you as we come out of this." His determination to return to musical creativity remains undiminished despite the significant health challenges he continues to face.
