Prog-rock legends Saga have made an everlasting mark on the scene, scoring a gold-selling album in 1981, which was propelled by the single “On The Loose”. Now, singer Michael Sadler has announced the following cancer diagnosis:
Dear family and friends, I need to take a moment to share some personal thoughts with you, as you’ve been all so kind to me these past few weeks – this time has been a whirlwind of loss, and reflection for me and my family.
On June 29, just before my 14th birthday many years ago, I lost my (our) father – an event that has shaped me in ways that I’m only now beginning to understand, as a parent myself.
Tragically on July 1st, we lost my (our) dear sister Dianne when she succumbed after an excruciating battle with cancer. Her passing has left an immense void for all of us. Dianne was like a second mother to me and my siblings—fiercely loving, kind and funny, a bit bossy, always looking out for us, even until her final moments. She fought with incredible bravery, putting on a cheerful front to comfort us all.
It was in fact my dearest birthday wish this year, as I turned another year older on July 5, that she’d be here to celebrate with me and my younger brother, whose birthday was July 2nd – which sounds a bit selfish, but of course we all wanted her with us as long as possible. I’ve been a wreck ever since me and my family visited a few weeks ago.
Being alone with her at the exact moment when she passed is a heartbreak I’m still navigating, and I’m struggling to process it all.
This past year has been especially challenging for my family. On my side, cancer struck 3 of the 5 siblings, in fact I found out about my brother’s Leukemia, within a day of my shock diagnosis last September. My brother is thankfully doing well on a daily drug regimen and we are so grateful for that.
As for me, I learned in April, just before boarding a cruise, that my cancer is incurable and untreatable.
Though I’m currently stable and otherwise doing well, this news has turned my life toward a more introspective and purposeful path. In this autumn of my life, I find myself reflecting on all the time Iwasted and the precious moments I have left – what to do, with whom, and how to spend it. I’m learning to live in this uncertain space, cherishing every moment I’m given.
With all this, I am deeply aware of my responsibilities and I plan on looking forward as best as we can. I’m working on leaving a musical legacy both for the band, completing my new projects and of course, keeping my promises to my family.
It is what it is, I can only hope that you’ll continue to support my efforts and hope to see you all again at my various events – maybe we’ll say hi to each other and take selfies a few more times…
With that said, your outpouring of birthday wishes and sympathy has touched my heart more than I can express. Thank you all for your love and kindness during this bittersweet time.
Your love and friendship means the world to me and my family. May your lives be blessed. See you all soon 🙏
Michael
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