MICHAEL SWEET, vocalist and guitarist for STRYPER, has shared an important and deeply personal health update with fans. In a heartfelt message posted to his social media on December 9, Sweet revealed that he has been diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. The announcement follows the discovery of a thyroid nodule that was biopsied in mid-November.

Sweet’s update quickly drew widespread support from the global STRYPER community. The singer has long embraced transparency with his fans, and this message continued that tradition. Despite the difficult news, he conveyed a tone of optimism and faith as he explained what comes next.

Sweet began by addressing the many questions he has received recently regarding his health. He expressed gratitude for the love and prayers sent his way before sharing the difficult results of the biopsy.

**“A lot of you have been asking about my health and well being so I wanted to give you an update.

First, thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers. It always means the world and I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to think of me.

I spoke to my endocrinologist and unfortunately the biopsy that was performed on 11/17 (a nodule in my right thyroid) came back positive. Malignant.”**

Although the diagnosis is serious, Sweet emphasized that papillary thyroid cancer is generally slow-growing and highly treatable. His tone throughout the message remained grounded in faith, realism, and determination. He described the steps ahead, noting that he will undergo additional scans before meeting with his surgical team.

“I’m scheduled for a CT and an ultrasound next Monday 12/15 (following the Christmas show) and then I’ll be meeting with my doctor/surgeon on 12/22 to figure out a plan moving forward.”

Even with the news, Sweet confirmed that STRYPER’s upcoming recording plans remain unchanged. The band is scheduled to begin tracking their new album on December 28, and Sweet reassured fans that he will move forward as planned before undergoing his next surgery.

**“We start recording the new Stryper album on 12/28 and that will remain on schedule. Once we finish tracking, I’ll be undergoing another surgery to remove my right thyroid and the nodule itself.

This is papillary thyroid cancer, so the good news that it’s slow growing and something that my doctor seems very optimistic about.”**

Sweet also reflected on how this situation relates to his vocal performance over the past several months. He previously underwent a thyroidectomy years earlier, yet he recalled singing better than ever shortly after recovering. More recently, however, he has felt increased vocal strain. Now, he understands why.

**“Interestingly enough, I sang the album When We Were Kings 2 months (to the day) after my first thyroidectomy, and I never felt better vocally.

Unfortunately (and more recently), I’ve been experiencing a few issues vocally and it feels a little more ‘crowded’ in there. Now I understand why.

My sincere apologies for not being to perform at 100% lately. It’s been a bit of a burden to be honest, but I’m confident that things will get better.”**

Throughout his message, Sweet displayed an unwavering belief in overcoming the diagnosis. Although the word “cancer” carries tremendous emotional weight, he reassured fans that he views this challenge as temporary.

“Even though it’s concerning to even hear the ‘C’ word (much less be diagnosed with it), I believe that it will be behind me soon enough. I’ll get in and deal with it and heal up and be ready for 2026.”

Faith has always played a central role in Sweet’s life and in STRYPER’s music. The message reflected this again as he encouraged fans not to worry. Instead, he asked for continued prayers while expressing trust in God’s plan.

**“Please don’t worry about me as I know and trust that God has a plan.

I’ve always felt some kind of peace in being able to ask for prayer here. Whether it’s for someone else or for myself, you always take the time to do that and it is a true blessing. It’s been a constant in my life and I believe that you all are friends. Family.”**

Sweet ended his message with warmth and gratitude, looking ahead to returning to the stage once he has fully healed.

**“I love you guys and I can’t wait to see you on the road in 2026.

Merry Christmas and I hope you all are enjoying the new Stryper Christmas album!

Always remember – He Is The Reason For The Season.”**

A Legacy of Strength and Perseverance

Sweet’s announcement adds a new chapter to a career defined by resilience. Over the years, he has navigated personal hardships, vocal surgeries, and the challenges of sustaining a decades-long career in the ever-shifting world of rock. Yet he has consistently emerged stronger, both as a performer and as a person.

Because STRYPER remains active and influential after so many years, Sweet’s willingness to communicate openly with fans has helped sustain an unusually loyal following. His message today reinforces that bond. It offers transparency, vulnerability, and the hope that 2026 will bring renewed strength and a return to touring.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Once Sweet completes surgery and recovery, STRYPER is expected to resume their touring schedule for 2026. Fans worldwide already anticipate the band’s next chapter, especially with a new studio album in the works.

Until then, Sweet’s focus will revolve around health, healing, and completing the new record. Given the optimism in his message—and the overwhelming support from fans—it’s clear that the STRYPER community will stand firmly behind him throughout this journey.