Billy Joel is ‘doing great’ following his diagnosis with a brain disorder that forced him to cancel his tour dates last year, according to his daughter Alexa Ray Joel.
The 76-year-old Piano Man singer was diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, a neurological condition that can affect balance, vision, and hearing, after experiencing a fall on stage during a performance in Connecticut.
The diagnosis led to the cancellation of a number of planned shows while he focuses on his health.
But Alexa Ray says her father has been taking his recovery seriously and is committed to improving his wellbeing.
‘He’s doing physical therapy regularly and he’s doing great. He’s lost weight as he’s on a diet,’ she told The Hollywood Reporter.
The singer-songwriter added that she has been encouraged by the determination Joel has shown since receiving the diagnosis.
‘I’m so proud of him. He’s such a trooper, so resilient and so committed to being healthy and proactive. He’s a fighter. He’s always been a fighter and talks in his documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes about how life’s like a fight.’
Joel’s health concerns became public after he stumbled and fell during a live performance, prompting concern from fans.
While the Uptown Girl singer initially tried to minimise the incident, Alexa Ray admitted the moment was deeply upsetting for her when she later saw footage of the fall.
‘He played it down. He knows I have anxiety and am a neurotic worrier, so he was like, “Everything’s fine. It was just a little trip,”’ she said.
But seeing the moment for herself brought a different reaction.
‘When I saw the footage, I was crying. But then I went with him to the doctors, and we’re on top of everything. I just tell him to stay healthy.’
Since then, Joel has been focusing on treatment and lifestyle changes, with his daughter describing him as determined to regain his strength.
Alexa Ray said the family is staying close and supportive as he continues his recovery.
Following the onstage incident, Joel posted a statement that read: ‘Billy Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).
‘This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance.
‘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.
‘He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.’
Billy added in a message: ‘I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.’
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