Michael Sadler, longtime frontman of the progressive rock band Saga, has opened up about a deeply emotional chapter in his life, revealing both a personal health crisis and a series of painful family losses.
In a heartfelt post shared on his official Facebook page, Sadler described the past year as a time of “loss and reflection,” shaped by grief and unexpected health challenges. He shared that just after the anniversary of his father’s death — a moment that continues to shape him as both an artist and a parent — his sister Dianne passed away following what he called “an excruciating battle with cancer.”
“Her passing has left an immense void,” Sadler wrote. “She was like a second mother to us — loving, strong, always watching out for the rest of the family. Even in her final days, she showed more courage than I can describe.”
The loss came just days before Sadler’s birthday on July 5 — a day he had quietly hoped to share once more with his sister and younger brother, whose birthday falls just days before. Sadler described the heartbreak of being at Dianne’s side in her final moments as something he’s still struggling to process.
Adding to the emotional weight, Sadler also revealed that he and two of his siblings were diagnosed with cancer over the past year. While his brother is responding well to treatment for leukemia, Sadler shared that his own diagnosis, discovered in September and confirmed in April, is incurable and untreatable.
“Right now, I’m stable and feeling okay,” he said, “but I know what lies ahead. This news has shifted how I look at life — what I want to focus on, who I spend time with, and how I use the time I have.”
Sadler, now 69, says he’s committed to continuing his work in music — finishing creative projects, performing when possible, and leaving behind a legacy both for his fans and his family.
“Despite all this, I’m learning to live in the moment,” he wrote. “It’s hard, but I’m trying to appreciate the time I have and the people who matter most.”
The veteran artist ended his message by thanking fans for their outpouring of support, birthday wishes, and kind words. “Your love and friendship mean the world to me and my family,” he said. “May your lives be full of peace and joy. I hope we’ll get to share a few more moments — maybe even a few selfies — along the way.”