Bret Michaels announced plans to take a break and reschedule upcoming shows following a recent health incident related to his diabetes. He shared the news in a statement posted on Instagram.
The Poison frontman detailed a concerning episode that occurred during a recent performance. He explained how his blood sugar levels dropped dangerously low.
“To all my friends in Pittsburgh and Washington, Pennsylvania area – simply put, thank you…you rule,” Michaels said. “Last night, there was a packed pre-show Meet & Greet and, although I knew my blood sugar was low, I was excited to meet everyone and not let anyone down.”
He continued describing the severity of the situation during his performance.
“Unfortunately, the highs and lows of living with diabetes since I’ve been six years old occasionally just kick my butt,” he said. “Last night, I went on stage and even added a song or two to the set to prove to myself & the fans that I could do it. At the end, my blood sugar walking off the stage was a real-life 39.”
Michaels acknowledged the need to prioritize his health and make scheduling adjustments.
“I vow in the near future, I’m going to take that time needed, and please forgive me if I have to move some of the shows around until I get this under control,” he said. “The schedule this summer is completely insane – all over the place and some of these will have to be rearranged, as one time I’m in Pennsylvania the next night Montana, one night Pittsburg, the next night Oklahoma, and so on.”
The musician concluded with an apology to fans while expressing his commitment to both his health and his performances.
“I am forever grateful, but just have to rearrange some of this schedule as everyone knows,” he said. “Again, my apologies I love the shows the fans and the music!”
This latest health scare highlights the ongoing challenges Michaels has faced throughout his career while managing his condition.
Diabetes.co.uk reported that Michaels was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of six. He has been managing the condition for decades while maintaining his demanding performance schedule. The condition requires constant monitoring and careful management, particularly during high-stress situations like live performances.
The Poison frontman has previously been open about his struggles with diabetes-related incidents during shows. Dr. Mirkin’s medical analysis documented that Michaels once collapsed on stage due to a severe hypoglycemic episode after failing to eat properly following an insulin injection. This demonstrates the serious risks performers with diabetes face.
Michaels has developed specific strategies for managing his diabetes during performances throughout his career with Poison. His official website noted that the band has sold over 45 million records worldwide. He typically prepares by taking small doses of insulin and keeping emergency supplies like orange juice and Gatorade nearby to quickly address sudden drops in blood sugar levels.
The demanding nature of touring schedules presents particular challenges for diabetics like Michaels. Frequent travel and irregular meal times create additional complications. His decision to reschedule shows reflects the reality that even experienced performers must sometimes prioritize their health over their commitment to fans, especially when blood sugar levels reach dangerously low levels like the 39 mg/dL he experienced after his recent performance.
