Rage Against The Machine bassist Tim Commerford recently opened up about his battle with prostate cancer, an illness he's been battling for nearly three years. In an interview with The Sound Labhe shares his thoughts on his state of health and his journey.
A “dark passenger”
At 56, Tim Commerford explains that he has learned to live with cancer, which he considers a “dark passenger”: “Cancer never really goes away. You have to live with it, do regular check-ups and learn to manage this constant worry.”
Although he admits to having gone through a very emotional period, he says today: “I’m proud of what I’m doing right now, both physically and artistically. I transformed something very negative into a strength that allowed me to surpass myself.”
Also read: Here are the 51 best Rock & Metal albums of 2024, according to Loudwire
Diagnosis and treatments
Commerford discovered his illness while trying to apply for life insurance. Abnormally elevated PSA (prostate specific antigen) tests led to a biopsy confirming cancer. Before Rage Against The Machine's 2022 reunion, he underwent surgery to remove his prostate.
Despite this intervention, he remains vigilant: “I'm at zero PSA at the moment, but testing every three months is part of my new life.”
A message to raise awareness
The bassist recalls the importance of early detection: “Prostate cancer is common, but it is very treatable if detected early. Men need to educate themselves about treatment options and their side effects to make informed choices.”
Around one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, but treatments exist to prolong survival if the disease is identified in time.
A career and parallel projects
Despite this struggle, Tim remains active musically. With his group 7D7D, he continues to explore new artistic avenues alongside Mathias Wakrat and Jonny Polonsky.
“I’m in great shape for a 56-year-old with cancer, and that motivates me to push my artistic and physical limits.”
Related News :