Chinese singer Zhang Mi diagnosed with cancer, to undergo surgery removing half tongue

By Phong Ngo November 21, 2024 | 08:47 pm PT

Chinese singer Zhang Mi has disclosed her diagnosis of tongue cancer, which will require surgery to remove half of her tongue, ending her singing career.

Zhang, who had been battling late-stage tonsil and oral cancer since 2019, announced on social media that this new diagnosis marks her third cancer battle in five years, according to Znews citing China Times.

Chinese singer Zhang Mi. Photo courtesy of Zhang's Weibo

"After multiple examinations, I was diagnosed with tongue cancer. I was devastated," Zhang said, sharing her emotional turmoil. "It’s incredibly difficult to accept that I will lose half of my tongue to surgery. I’m unsure if I’ll be able to speak clearly afterward, but singing will no longer be possible. That’s why I’ve decided to record a few songs before my surgery."

Reflecting on her journey, Zhang expressed, "I can’t help but wonder, how many hardships must we endure in life? There are so many challenges beyond our control, but when they come, we have no choice but to face them."

Despite the daunting prognosis, Zhang urged her fans not to worry, vowing to confront the disease with resilience and determination.

Born in 1965, Zhang Mi rose to fame after winning the National Singing Competition and is celebrated for hits such as "Contribution," "Embracing the Next Life," and "The Bodhi Tree."