Get ready for a shock: Midnight Oil’s legendary drummer, Rob Hirst, has just revealed that he’s been battling pancreatic cancer for two years.
The 69-year-old Aussie rockstar decided to share his story to raise awareness about this often-overlooked disease.
The Harsh Reality of Pancreatic Cancer
Hirst wants to spread the word about pancreatic cancer, which is often overlooked compared to other types of cancer.
Despite being one of the most deadly forms of cancer, it doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves.
The statistics are alarming: only about 10% of patients survive for five years or more after diagnosis. This is due to its aggressive growth and limited treatment options.
A Personal Battle
Rob Hirst has been undergoing treatment for two years and is taking things one day at a time. He’s had almost every treatment imaginable, including scans, ultrasounds, and MRIs.
Despite the challenges, he’s feeling positive and wants to encourage others to get tested if they notice anything unusual. “If you feel like something’s off, don’t hesitate to get a simple blood test,” he urges. “It could be life-changing and life-extending.”
A Legendary Career
As the drummer for Midnight Oil, Hirst has been making music alongside frontman Peter Garrett since 1972.
He’s co-written some of the band’s most iconic songs, including “Beds are Burning,” “Blue Sky Mine,” and “Power and the Passion.” With a career spanning over four decades, Midnight Oil has sold over 20 million albums worldwide.
A Look Back at Midnight Oil’s History
Interestingly, the band almost went by a different name. In a recent interview, Peter Garrett revealed that they considered names like “Schwampy Moose,” “Sparta,” and “Television” before settling on Midnight Oil in 1976.
The name was inspired by the Jimi Hendrix song “Burning of the Midnight Lamp.”
The band’s new documentary, “The Hardest Line,” takes a look back at their incredible career, featuring interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.
Raising Awareness
Rob Hirst’s bravery in sharing his story is a reminder of the importance of raising awareness about pancreatic cancer.
By speaking out, he hopes to encourage others to take control of their health and get tested if they notice any unusual symptoms.
Let’s support Rob Hirst and the thousands of people affected by pancreatic cancer by spreading the word and promoting awareness.