Billy Joel’s daughter Alexa Ray Joel recently provided an encouraging update on her father’s health following his diagnosis of a rare brain disorder, speaking to The Hollywood Reporter.
Alexa Ray discussed her father’s current condition and his commitment to recovery after he had to cancel his touring plans due to the health diagnosis.
“He’s doing physical therapy regularly and he’s doing great. He’s lost weight as he’s on his diet. I’m so proud of him,” she said. “He’s such a trooper, so resilient and committed to being healthy and proactive. He’s a fighter. He’s always been a fighter and talks in his documentary about how life’s like a fight.”
The younger Joel also revealed that she has set some protective conditions for her father’s potential future performances.
“Once a performer, always a performer! But health comes first,” Alexa Ray continued. “I said, ‘If you’re going to perform again, please stay seated at the piano. No throwing the microphone stand around!'”
This update comes after Billy Joel briefly returned to the stage in January to perform with a covers band. This showed his continued passion for music despite his health challenges.
The Piano Man’s health journey began when he received his diagnosis in May last year. This marked a significant turning point in his legendary career.
The Independent reported that Billy Joel was diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). This condition typically affects people over 60 and is caused by excess cerebrospinal fluid buildup in the brain. This rare disorder leads to balance issues and cognitive decline, explaining the challenges the 76-year-old musician has been facing.
The condition required medical intervention. Liv Hospital noted that Billy underwent shunt surgery to treat the NPH. The surgical procedure involves placing a shunt to drain the excess fluid. This treatment has led to improvements that have allowed him to return to music.
When Billy first publicly addressed his condition in July, he maintained his characteristic humor and resilience. “I feel fine… my balance sucks,” he said, as reported by Fox News. He insisted that the disorder sounds worse than it actually feels.
The successful treatment and his daughter’s recent positive update demonstrate that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee continues to fight through his health challenges with the same determination that has defined his decades-long career.
