It’s not every day a punk rock legend opens up about his most vulnerable moments. But for Dave Baksh, guitarist of the iconic Canadian band Sum 41, honesty is part of the healing—and the legacy. In celebration of the band’s induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and his partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society for Daffodil Month, Baksh is using his platform to raise awareness about cancer, early detection, and the emotional strength it takes to fight.
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Early detection changed everything
“This really felt like the perfect bookend to an unexpected career,” Dave shares. “I’m still processing all that we’ve done.” But the story behind the stage lights is just as meaningful. Diagnosed with testicular cancer just as Sum 41 was preparing for one of their biggest U.S. tours alongside Simple Plan, Dave recalls the crushing moment clearly. “We were all excited to get back on the road after the pandemic, and then came the diagnosis. I remember thinking, ‘Maybe I’ll never be able to play again.’”
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Fortunately, early detection changed everything. “The fact that doctors caught it early allowed me to go on tour, play music again, and continue doing what I love most,” he says. That’s why Baksh is urging others—especially men—to take their health seriously. “As soon as something feels off, go get it checked. Physical or mental. No matter how uncomfortable it is.”
Canadian Cancer Society
His message is hitting at just the right time. Through his work with the Canadian Cancer Society during Daffodil Month, Dave is encouraging people to donate and raise awareness. “When I did Relay for Life, connecting with others who’d gone through similar experiences really hit me,” he reflects. “That’s when I knew I wanted to help however I could.”
For Dave, his cancer journey also sparked a deeper appreciation for life, music, and connection. “I used to get the ball, put my head down, and run. Now I look around more. I make smarter choices. I really enjoy the life I’ve been afforded.” Part of that reflection came during his recovery, when he couldn’t even play his guitar. “I just sat and listened. I really leaned into the music and took time to study the greats. There’s truth to the lyric, ‘It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing.’”
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The misconceptions
Although Sum 41 has now officially retired—with their final show in Vancouver—Dave’s story continues to inspire. “One woman at Relay said something I’ll never forget,” he recalls. “‘I’m surviving with cancer. I refuse to say I’m fighting it. I wake up and live another day with a smile—that’s not a fight.’ That hit me hard.”
Still, Dave is quick to remind others that cancer isn’t just physical. “It can wreck you mentally too. But family, music, and being open with others helped me through.” As for the misconceptions? “Denial is the silent killer,” he warns. “Especially among young men. Don’t ignore what your body’s telling you. It’s not weakness—it’s survival.”
To those inspired by his story and looking to help, Dave urges donations to cancer.ca/daffodil. “Every dollar powers research, supports patients, and creates a healthier Canada,” he says. “If I can use my voice to help even one person, then this next chapter is worth writing.”
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