Daughters of Michael Bolton Share Updates on His Health, Asserting His ‘Morale is High’ Despite Glioblastoma Diagnosis
In a heartfelt discussion with AARP.org, the daughters of musician Michael Bolton have shared their experience caring for their father, who was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer known as glioblastoma in December 2023.
Isa and Taryn Bolton, along with their sister Holly, have taken on the role of caregivers for their father since his diagnosis. Speaking about his current status, they expressed joy and pride in the strength and spirit their father has shown throughout his health battle.
“We are delighted to share that our father’s mood remains high and his health is good, despite the challenges,” Isa shared. “He has good days and difficult ones, but overall, he is robust. His cognitive and physical abilities have been remarkable.”
Taryn affirmed that the atmosphere in their Connecticut residence is filled with positivity, as the singer of ‘How Am I Supposed to Live Without You’ is usually in high spirits and ready to face each day with enthusiasm.
Michael Bolton was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a severe type of brain cancer, in December 2023. He underwent emergency surgery in the same month, during which the doctors managed to remove a brain tumor.
The renowned musician completed his radiation and chemotherapy treatments in October 2024. To ensure the tumor has not regrown – a common occurrence in glioblastoma with a recurrence rate of about 90 percent – he now undergoes MRI scans bi-monthly.
During their conversation with AARP, Isa and Taryn shared insights into how they’ve adapted to their roles as caregivers and how they each contribute in unique ways. “We each have our own ways of showing him love and respect. For example, one of us is meticulous about providing daily care… ensuring that everything is done correctly,” Isa explained. “Another one of us is more focused on his company and his mood. Then, collectively, we handle the various business and professional matters that need daily attention.”
She confessed that “caregiver fatigue is an extraordinary experience,” and compared it to a roller coaster ride. “We have wonderful days, and we have hard days,” she admitted. “Sometimes, the pressure, the responsibility, feels overwhelming.”
Adding to this, Taryn stated, “It’s crucial to be strong within oneself to offer the best care to your loved ones.”
AARP CEO Myechia Minter-Jordan applauded the dedication shown by Michael Bolton’s daughters throughout his health journey, stating, “Their devotion is a potent testament to the crucial care provided by over 63 million family caregivers nationwide. They sacrifice so much each day, and it’s imperative that policymakers ensure they receive the necessary support.”
Despite the hurdles, the sisters cherish the fact that their father has scaled back his hectic working schedule and is spending more quality time at home with them and their six children. “In these two years, we’ve probably shared more meals with him than we have in our entire lives,” Isa revealed. “He’s always surrounded by one or more of his children and grandchildren during meal times.”
In a statement sent via email to the outlet, Bolton commended his daughters for their steady support, stating, “This past year has tested me in ways I could never have anticipated… My daughters have been a constant source of grounding for me.”
The singer publicly spoke about his diagnosis for the first time in a cover story interview with PEOPLE in April. “Knowing that you’re not alone in dealing with life’s challenges makes a huge difference,” Bolton said, who deliberately chose not to receive a prognosis and is maintaining an optimistic outlook. “It’s helpful for people to know their struggles are shared. It reassures them they’re not alone.”
He first revealed his health condition to his loyal fans in January 2024, announcing on Instagram that he’d had brain surgery and was planning to take a break from his concert tours. Since then, he’s been recuperating at home, with his family by his side every step of the way.
“I want to keep moving. I feel there’s still a lot I need to fight for,” he expressed in April. “I’ve even thought of a title for a song: ‘Ain’t Going Down Without a Fight.'”
In November, he posted photos from his family’s Thanksgiving celebration at home. “Feeling extra grateful today for all the love, joy, and little moments that make life beautiful. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! 🧡🍁🍂,” he wrote in the caption of the post, which included photos of his feast with his daughters and grandchildren.