From Cancer to Chords: Delta Goodrem's Life-Changing Battles
Delta Goodrem Spills All: From Shock Cancer Diagnosis to Losing Her Voice at 30
In a candid conversation on the latest episode of The Life of Bryony podcast, Australian songbird Delta Goodrem opens up about the two most life-altering events that have shaped her illustrious career. The 40-year-old singer-songwriter, known for her chart-topping hits and record-breaking albums, has been an international sensation since her teenage years.
From the highs of signing a recording contract at just 15 to topping charts with her debut album 'Innocent Eyes' in 2003, Delta's trajectory was on fire. However, life had other plans when she was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, an aggressive form of blood cancer, before embarking on her first world tour at the tender age of 18.
"It was like my whole world came crashing down," Delta recounts, reflecting on the moment she discovered a lump in her neck while preparing for a gig. "I was exhausted all the time and felt like I was getting run over by a truck. Little did I know that my body was warning me of something much bigger."
Despite the initial shock, Delta's determination to beat the disease propelled her to establish the Delta Goodrem Foundation, which has since raised an astonishing $120 million for blood cancer research. Her foundation's work is a testament to the resilience and generosity of this talented artist.
"I don't see my cancer diagnosis as a dark moment," she says with conviction. "I see it as a triumph because it's given me the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives. I'm forever grateful for that."
However, life had another surprise in store for Delta when, at 30, she suffered an unexpected health crisis that would change her career trajectory once again. In 2018, a buildup of calcium in her salivary gland formed a small stone, which later became lodged in her throat.
"It was like my voice was taken away from me," Delta explains, her eyes clouding over at the memory. "I had to relearn how to speak and sing all over again. It was a humbling experience that taught me the value of simplicity."
This setback could have been a career-ender for many, but not for Delta Goodrem. She channeled this challenge into a moment of introspection and self-discovery, using it as an opportunity to reconnect with her loved ones and herself.
"That was a very surrendering moment," she admits. "I had to let go of all the external pressures and noise and just focus on healing. I'm grateful for that experience because it's made me stronger and more compassionate."
As Delta looks back on her journey, she acknowledges that both these health crises have transformed her career in profound ways.
"I've learned to appreciate the fragility of life," she says with a newfound perspective. "I've realized that it's not just about achieving success or fame but about using your platform to make a positive impact."
Delta Goodrem's memoir, Bridge Over Troubled Dreams, is now available, offering an intimate glimpse into her remarkable journey. To listen to the full episode of The Life of Bryony podcast, where Delta opens up about her career and turning 40, search for The Life of Bryony Now – wherever you get your podcasts.
Sources: