Billy Joel Breaks Silence on Health Issues With Candid Update
Two months ago, legendary musician Billy Joel canceled his concert tour due to a recent diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder where excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain’s ventricles.
“This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance,” a statement posted to social media read. “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.”
Radio host Howard Stern previously relayed a health update on Joel in June at the behest of Joel who wanted Stern to "tell people I'm not dying." Fast forward one month later and Joel is finally breaking his silence on the diagnosis with his first update for fans.
The "Piano Man" singer, 76, sat down with Bill Maher on the comedian's "Club Random" podcast and revealed, "my balance sucks...It's like being on a boat."
The singer continued, "I feel good. They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder, so it sounds a lot worse than what I'm feeling." Joel also said he initially thought his balance issues were from drinking, noting that he used to drink "like a fish."
When Maher asked Joel if his health issues were fixed, though, the Grammy winner noted, "It's not fixed. It's still being worked on."
Joel previously received a loving message of support from his daughter, Alexa, whom he shares with ex-wife and model Christie Brinkley.
"We love you and we got you, Pop! I just wanted to thank you all for the beautiful outpouring of love and support amid the recent news of My Father’s health diagnosis," she said at the time. "My Dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known… and he’s entirely committed to making a full recovery with ongoing physical-therapy treatments as he continues to regain his strength."
Related: Christie Brinkley Breaks Silence on Billy Joel's Health Diagnosis
