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Health
31 March 2025

Preta Gil Shares Cancer Battle And Treatment Plans

The singer prepares for treatment in the U.S. after exhausting options in Brazil

In a heartfelt appearance on the show Domingão com Huck, Brazilian singer Preta Gil shared her ongoing battle against cancer while announcing her plans to seek further treatment in the United States. The emotional segment aired on March 30, 2025, as she described entering a challenging phase of her recovery after enduring a grueling 21-hour surgery to remove tumors from her abdomen, following a diagnosis of rectal cancer.

Preta Gil, the daughter of renowned musician Gilberto Gil, expressed her gratitude for the support she has received from family, friends, and medical professionals during her journey. "I have a lot of gratitude for being able to go through everything I am going through, which is not easy, with the support of my family, friends, and doctors, being able to treat myself with dignity," she stated, visibly emotional.

During her appearance, Preta revealed her imminent travel to the United States for experimental treatment at a hospital in New York, as she felt that all possible options had been exhausted in Brazil. "Here in Brazil, we have done everything we could. Now my chances of a cure are abroad, and that is where I am going to return cured," she declared, emphasizing her determination not to give up.

Her doctor, Dr. Fernanda Capareli, an oncologist specializing in gastrointestinal tumors at the Hospital Sírio-Libanês, provided insights into her current health status. "Preta is recovering from major surgery, and the next steps will depend on follow-up exams, including MRI and PET-CT scans, which should be done by the end of this week," she explained. Dr. Capareli noted that there are currently no visible lesions, and these exams will be repeated every three months.

Preta Gil is also undergoing blood tests every two to three weeks to monitor her kidney function and other blood levels. Dr. Capareli highlighted that the greatest risk of cancer recurrence typically occurs within the first 18 months after treatment, a critical period she referred to as the "golden hour" when closer monitoring is essential.

As she prepares for her journey, Preta remains optimistic about her future. "I refuse to accept that it has ended for me now. I still have a path ahead," she asserted, reflecting on her desire to return to her passion for music, spend time with her granddaughter, and fulfill her work commitments. She expressed her belief in the importance of faith, science, and love in her fight against cancer, stating, "I have a lot of love for life, and I know we have to learn to deal with finitude. I have a lot of faith in my orixás and my saints, faith in life, faith in love."

The singer's emotional testimony resonated with many, including the show's host, Luciano Huck, who praised her resilience and strength. "You are giving a lesson in life to many people facing cancer. You have become a beacon of light, showing that it is possible to face challenges with a smile and strength, even when everything seems very dark," Huck remarked during the show.

Preta also performed two songs during her appearance: "Brasil," the opening theme of the upcoming remake of the soap opera Vale Tudo, and "Sinais de Fogo," one of her greatest hits. Her performance was met with cheers and support from the audience, further highlighting the affection and admiration her fans have for her.

Despite the challenges she faces, Preta Gil’s story is one of hope and determination. She plans to return to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in mid-April to discuss the results of her recent surgery and continue her fight against cancer.

As she embarks on this new chapter in her treatment, Preta's message remains clear: she is committed to fighting for her health and living life to the fullest. "I have a lot to do in this life, so I refuse to accept that it has ended for me now. I believe in faith, science, and love. And we will move forward, we will move forward," she concluded, inspiring many with her unwavering spirit.

Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of hope and the relentless pursuit of healing, resonating not only with her fans but also with anyone facing similar battles.