New Found Glory Guitarist Undergoes Surgery to Remove Brain Tumors

Chad Gilbert recovering after successful procedure to address recent medical issues.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 2:15am by Ben Kaplan

New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert has undergone surgery to remove three tumors from his brain. Gilbert shared on Instagram that he began experiencing issues with the movement in his left hand and leg, leading to a CT scan that revealed the new tumors. He underwent successful brain surgery on February 27th and is now recovering in the hospital.

Why it matters

Gilbert's health issues are concerning for fans of the popular punk rock band New Found Glory, which he has been a part of since its formation in 1997. Brain tumors can be a serious medical condition, and Gilbert's openness about his journey provides insight into the challenges musicians and other public figures can face with their health.

The details

According to Gilbert's Instagram post, he first noticed issues with the movement in his left hand while performing a show on February 20th. Over the next few days, his left leg also grew weaker, causing him to stumble and fall at times. After being taken to the emergency room on February 23rd, a CT scan revealed three new tumors in his brain. Gilbert underwent successful surgery to remove the tumors on February 27th and is now recovering in the hospital.

  • On February 20, Gilbert noticed issues controlling the movements of his left hand while performing a show.
  • On February 23, Gilbert was taken to the emergency room where a CT scan showed 3 new tumors in his brain.
  • On February 27, Gilbert underwent successful brain surgery to remove the tumors.

The players

Chad Gilbert

The guitarist for the punk rock band New Found Glory, who has been diagnosed with brain tumors and recently underwent surgery to remove three of them.

New Found Glory

A popular American punk rock band that Chad Gilbert has been a part of since its formation in 1997.

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What they’re saying

“My radiation oncologist described it like this: 'this is not a fatal blow and not the end of your story, just the beginning of a new chapter.'”

— Chad Gilbert, Guitarist, New Found Glory

What’s next

Gilbert will continue recovering in the hospital as he works to regain full function of his left hand and leg. The band has not announced any upcoming tour dates or plans, but fans are hopeful Gilbert will be able to return to performing with New Found Glory in the future.

The takeaway

Chad Gilbert's openness about his brain tumor diagnosis and surgery highlights the health challenges that musicians and other public figures can face. His positive outlook and the support of his bandmates and fans will be crucial as he navigates this new chapter in his life and career.