Longtime Radio Host John O’Brien Faces Terminal Cancer Battle
WILBRAHAM, Massachusetts — John O’Brien, a well-known radio personality, is confronting the harsh reality of terminal cancer after a 14-year battle with the disease. At 65 years old, he has received the difficult news from his doctors that he has less than a year to live. Despite this grim prognosis, O’Brien remains candid about his situation, a trait he has maintained throughout his career as a host on the popular radio show “Bax and O’Brien” on Rock 102, WAQY-FM.
O’Brien, who now finds himself frequently fatigued and reliant on numerous medications, reflected on his diagnosis during an interview in his home. “I didn’t think they were going to tell me six to 12 months. I was surprised,” he shared. The weight of knowing his time is limited feels like waking from a persistent nightmare. “But you face another day,” he added, emphasizing a resolve to live fully in the time he has left.
The radio veteran gained local fame co-hosting “Bax and O’Brien” alongside Michael “Bax” Baxendale for 27 years. The duo was inducted into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2022. Following a contentious departure from the show that year, O’Brien transitioned to podcasting with “O.B Negative,” continuing to engage with listeners in a new format.
A Legacy of Laughter and Community Support
O’Brien and Baxendale’s partnership was characterized by their contrasting personalities, which Baxendale likened to “The Odd Couple.” Despite their differences, their chemistry resonated with audiences, leading to the duo producing an impressive 6,500 shows and 19,000 hours of content, during which they often playfully disagreed on various topics.
During a recent charity event at the Chicopee Elks Lodge, a roast in honor of O’Brien raised over $10,000 for a local police charity aimed at supporting families in need. Baxendale humorously remarked that their partnership outlasted both of their first marriages, highlighting the deep bond formed through their years on air.
Local political figures often appeared on their show, including former Springfield Mayor Michael J. Albano, who cherished his time with O’Brien. Albano made regular contributions to the show, engaging in comedic segments that highlighted local issues. “John would always pick an issue, whatever the issue of the day was. But mostly it was comedy,” Albano stated, fondly recalling his experiences.
O’Brien has been open about the challenges of his illness, which began with what he initially thought was a benign mole. Over the years, he has faced multiple recurrences of melanoma, with his latest diagnosis occurring in January 2023 after a painful patch of skin required surgery.
Reflections on a Lifelong Dream
Despite his current health challenges, O’Brien reflects positively on his career, describing it as a realization of a childhood dream. He has always been drawn to radio and the notoriety it brings. His early career began at WMAS, where he was let go for being “too edgy,” a label that ultimately suited him well at Rock 102.
In his interactions with fans and colleagues, O’Brien’s personality has left a lasting impression. Timothy J. Rooke, a former Springfield City Councilor and longtime friend, expressed admiration for O’Brien’s commitment to cancer awareness and his genuine nature. “He has been an outspoken ambassador for cancer awareness. He loves police officers and that he’s everybody’s favorite,” Rooke said, sharing anecdotes of their friendship over the past two decades.
As O’Brien navigates this difficult journey, he has chosen not to travel or seek grand adventures. Instead, he finds solace in the relationships he has built and the impact he has made in his community. “I feel I’ve accomplished what I was put here to do,” he concluded, embodying a spirit of resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity.
