Billy Joel Cancels Upcoming Concerts Due to Brain Disorder

Billy Joel Cancels Upcoming Concerts Due to Brain Disorder

Musical superstar Billy Joel has canceled all of his upcoming concerts, including a large-scale tour scheduled for this year and next, due to a brain disorder known as normal pressure hydrocephalus. 

“This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance,” according to a statement posted to Joel’s social media accounts. “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.”

“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for your understanding,” the statement added. 

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The list of Joel’s canceled tour dates can be found on his website here. 

The note added that ticket refunds will be returned and “automatically processed back to the original payment used for purchase.” 

According to The New York Times, “normal pressure hydrocephalus, or N.P.H., is a rare condition that occurs when excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain, causing symptoms that include trouble walking and controlling one’s bladder. It can also lead to cognitive impairment, including memory problems.

If N.P.H. is diagnosed early enough, it can be treated successfully through surgery that creates a path for the fluid to flow out of the brain, alleviating symptoms. But in later stages of the disease, some of its effects can become irreversible.”

PHOTO: CC 2.0 Mind's Eye