Motörhead and Scorpions drummer Mikkey Dee recently revealed a harrowing battle with sepsis, a life-threatening condition arising from the body’s extreme response to infection. The 61-year-old musician spent three weeks hospitalized at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, his hometown, undergoing multiple surgeries to combat the severe blood infection.
In a Facebook post on January 2nd, Dee expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and well wishes he received during the holiday season, acknowledging his inability to respond personally due to his hospitalization. He detailed the severity of the infection, describing it as a “very serious blood infection (Sepsis)” that required extensive medical intervention. Dee praised the “fantastic care” he received from the medical professionals at Sahlgrenska, crediting the doctors and nurses with saving his life.
Following multiple surgeries to remove infected tissue, Dee is now recovering at home. He is focused on regaining his strength and resuming his drumming duties with the Scorpions. Despite the arduous recovery process ahead, Dee remains optimistic about returning to the stage for the band’s Las Vegas residency, scheduled to begin on February 27th. He also expressed excitement for the Scorpions’ upcoming 60th-anniversary celebrations and the numerous global concerts planned for 2025.
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Dee’s recent health scare underscores the seriousness of sepsis. In an interview with Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet last month, Dee revealed that the infection stemmed from a seemingly minor foot sprain. The injury rapidly escalated, leading to severe swelling and discoloration. Dee described his foot as resembling “an overcooked ham” before his condition deteriorated significantly. He was rushed to the hospital via ambulance, where doctors discovered alarmingly high infection markers, prompting immediate surgical intervention.
Dee candidly recounted the severity of his illness, stating that he was perilously close to death. He grimly joked that another day without treatment would have resulted in him “playing drums with Lemmy [Kilmister of Motörhead] in heaven.” The experience highlights the rapid and potentially fatal progression of sepsis, emphasizing the importance of prompt medical attention for any signs of severe infection. Dee’s determination to return to performing reflects his resilience and dedication to his music career. His recovery journey serves as a testament to the life-saving capabilities of modern medicine and the unwavering spirit of a rock legend.
