Kaylah Walton
Billy Joel, a legendary figure in the American music scene, is currently facing a challenging time as he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
In light of this diagnosis, the 76-year-old artist decided to cancel all upcoming concerts, a tough but essential choice to focus on his well-being.
In an emotional response to this situation, his spouse, Alexis Roderick Joel, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the community’s support on the musician’s official Instagram account.
“We are deeply thankful for the love and encouragement we have received”, Alexis shared on Monday, May 26, alongside a family picture featuring Billy and their daughters, Della, aged 9, and Remy, aged 7.
“We are incredibly thankful for the outstanding medical attention and swift diagnosis we’ve received,” Alexis noted, emphasizing that beyond his celebrity status, for them: “Bill is a devoted father and husband, the heart of our family.”
The family’s confidence in the recovery of their beloved Piano Man
At 43, Alexis also expressed a message of optimism: “We are hopeful for his recovery and look forward to seeing everyone soon.”
The diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition characterized by an accumulation of excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles, was announced on May 23.
The official announcement indicated that recent live shows had worsened Joel’s condition, leading to issues with balance, hearing, and vision.
Following medical recommendations, the artist has started specific rehabilitation therapies and has been advised to halt his performances until his recovery is completed.
A Message from Billy Joel to His Supporters
Billy Joel expressed his heartfelt sentiments to his supporters: “I’m truly sorry for letting our fans down, and I appreciate their patience.”
He is clearly dedicated to his recovery, and close sources confirm that he is receiving excellent medical attention.
His family has also shared their thoughts. Alexa Ray Joel, Billy’s daughter from his marriage to Christie Brinkley, posted a touching black-and-white picture of a father and daughter holding hands, along with a heartfelt message:
“We cherish you and stand by you, Dad,” she concluded her post with a lyric from “Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel),” a song her father created for her on the River of Dreams album.
Meanwhile, Joel’s former spouse, Christie Brinkley, 71, offered her encouragement through social media on Saturday, May 24: “The entire Brinkley family wishes you lots of love and hopes for a swift recovery.”
Billy initially postponed his tour dates from February due to a fall he had on stage during a performance in Connecticut. At that time, there were indications of a “medical issue” that needed specialized care.
As he embarks on his journey to recovery, his family, friends, and fans globally are rallying around him, eagerly anticipating the moment he can once again grace the stage with his extraordinary music.
