Bret Michaels, the 63-year-old frontman for the rock band Poison, revealed on Facebook that he underwent emergency surgery to remove a kidney stone. The hospitalization occurred after he performed three concerts while experiencing "intense" pain. Michaels shared an update from his hospital bed on Wednesday, expressing gratitude for the healthcare workers who attended to him.
Painful Performances
Michaels explained that he was taken to the hospital when the kidney stone "would not pass" after a week, and the pain became "too much." Despite the discomfort, he performed in Charleston, West Virginia; Grantville, Pennsylvania; and a private show for military families at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Washington. He was hospitalized the day after his Spokane performance.
"The operation has been done and is complete & I’m out of post-op recovery, and I’m doing everything within my power to feel better and continue playing great shows for great fans when I’ve got a complete clean bill of health," Michaels stated.
Previous Event Cancellation
Michaels was also scheduled to perform at the Freedom 250 Presents: The Great American State Fair concert series, which ran from June 25 to July 10 and was affiliated with former President Trump. However, on May 28, he canceled his appearance, along with other acts, citing concerns about safety and that the event had "evolved into something much more divisive" than originally presented.
He stated that the opportunity was initially described as a celebration of the country and an honor for veterans, active military, first responders, and teachers. Michaels, whose family has a history of military service, said he was proud to support such an event. However, he felt the show became "much more divisive" than he agreed to participate in, and concerns were raised about the safety of his fans, band, crew, and family.
Upcoming Schedule
Michaels is next scheduled to perform on July 31 in Belleville, Illinois, as part of his North American tour, which is slated to continue through September.