Touring in the summer can be grueling for any musician. Bret Michaels probably knows this more than anyone.
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The frontman for the '80s glam rock band Poison has been open about the challenges that come with being a musician and managing his diabetes. Unfortunately, he has had to deal with some health scares onstage and has had to cancel some performances as a result.
Michaels shared with fans on an Instagram post that he suffered a low blood sugar scare at a recent show. Despite pressing on without incident, he acknowledged it was time to rearrange his "insane" schedule so he could prioritize his health.
"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 said in an Instagram post. "Unfortunately, the highs and lows of living with diabetes since I've been six years old occasionally just kick my butt."
Things got pretty serious for Michaels
"Last night, I went on stage and even added a song or two to the set to prove to myself [and] the fans that I could do it," continued Michaels. "At the end, my blood sugar walking off the stage was a real-life 39."
According to the National Institutes of Health, a blood sugar level below 54 mg/dL is harmful and requires immediate action. It can cause weakness, anxiety and blurry vision and can lead to a possible seizure or coma.
Michaels promised his fans in the near future, he would "take that time needed" to prioritize his health. He also asked them to forgive him if he has to move some of his shows around until he gets his health "under control."
He did end his message to fans on a positive note: "I love the shows, the fans and the music!"
Bret Michaels is more than a rock legend
Michaels has never been shy about his love of country music. His 2015 album 'True Grit' puts a new spin on his classic Poison tracks, including a rendition of "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" with Loretta Lynn.
Michaels' solo tour has dates through late September, and he hopes to reunite with Poison for a 40th anniversary tour next year.
