Billy Joel Opens Up About His Battle with Brain Disorder and Future Plans
BILLY JOEL'S BRAIN DOCTRINE: THE MUSIC ICON'S JOURNEY THROUGH HYDROCEPHALUS
The legendary musician Billy Joel has been keeping it real, folks! In a candid conversation on Bill Maher's Club Random podcast, the 76-year-old music icon opened up about his health struggles amidst his battle with brain disorder, Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).
After revealing his diagnosis in May and canceling his upcoming concerts due to recent onstage struggles, Joel gave fans an emotional update on Monday. And let me tell you, it's a wild ride!
"I feel fine," Billy said, "My balance sucks. It's like being a boat!" The condition has impacted Joel's hearing, vision, and balance, leaving him wondering if his medical issues are connected to his recent fall on stage during a gig at the Mohegan Sun resort in Monteville, Connecticut.
But here's the tea: Billy's been open about his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse, as well as his battles with mental health, which at one point led to a suicide attempt amid career pressures. So, is this latest health scare just another chapter in Joel's ongoing struggle?
According to Mayo Clinic, hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the brain, enlarging the ventricles and putting pressure on brain tissue, potentially causing damage and neurological symptoms. And if left untreated, the condition may lead to permanent damage in its later stages.
But don't worry, Billy's got this! The legendary musician is currently undergoing targeted physical therapy as prescribed by his doctor and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. And let me tell you, fans are not only understanding but also grateful for the care he's receiving.
"I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding," Billy wrote on Instagram. "Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health."
And speaking of priorities, Joel's illustrious career as a musician began back in the mid-1960s with the release of debut studio album, Cold Spring Harbor (1971). But it wasn't until after the success of his follow-up, Piano Man (1973), that he really started to gain traction.
Now an established name on the musical landscape, Billy became a million seller with the release of Streetlife Serenade (1974) and then achieved commercial breakthrough with The Stranger (1977). And let me tell you, fans won't need to take any steps to receive a refund – payments will be automatically returned to the original form of purchase.
So, what's next for Billy? Well, he's expressed his gratitude for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage. And trust me, we can't wait!
But before we go, let's get back to that pesky fall on stage in late February. Was it connected to Billy's medical issues? Fans have been speculating left and right! And honestly, only time will tell.
In a conversation with BBC Radio 2 DJ Zoe Ball, Billy was asked whether he maintains a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. His candid response? "None of the above. I don't think I look all that good. But I don't look in the mirror that often, which helps a lot. There's a saying, 'things don't look half bad with one eye closed.'"
And honestly, we can't help but giggle at Billy's sass! So here's to Billy Joel – may his health continue to be top priority as he navigates this latest chapter in his journey.
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