Pete Koller, guitarist of New York hardcore band Sick Of It All, has revealed that his brother Lou Koller, the band's vocalist, asked before his death that the group continue performing. Lou died in July 2026 at the age of 59 following a prolonged battle with an oesophageal tumour, and Pete's statement, shared in a video message on 13 September, addresses fans' questions about the band's future while also thanking supporters for their help during Lou's illness.

Lou was first diagnosed after doctors discovered a cancerous tumour in his oesophagus in June 2024, prompting the cancellation of a European tour and a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $380,000, with contributions from bands including AFI, Rancid and Dropkick Murphys. He announced in September 2025 that the cancer had returned just months after being declared cancer-free. Pete said Lou wanted the band to carry on and to thank fans for the life touring had given him, adding that plans for the group's future are "in the works" though not yet finalised.