On Friday, musician Billy Joel revealed that he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. This condition, known as idiopathic intracranial hypertension, is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid deep within the brain. Due to this harrowing health issue, the groundbreaking musician has called off all of his future shows.
In his post on Instagram, Joel broke the news to his fans, saying how sorry he was to cancel the shows. His spokesperson was reached for additional comments on his health by “Good Morning America.”
Normal pressure hydrocephalus is known as a classic triad of symptoms, which include impaired gait or balance, cognitive impairment, and urinary incontinence. This is the recommended information on this serious medical condition, courtesy of the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
His romantic interests were as eclectic as his compositions, with the pianist and conductor being married to model Christie Brinkley from 1985 to 1994. Together, they had one daughter, Alexa Ray Joel. Their history I sit with the now former couple, who have remained warm and friendly through the years while raising their daughter together. Brinkley has two other children from previous relationships, and Joel has two more kids from other marriages.
In a clear act of solidarity, Christie Brinkley made her own Instagram post on Saturday, one day after Joel’s big reveal. With each stroke, she poured her love, dreams, and encouragement into him. She urged them all to remember the positive influence he’s had on his supporters and close family.
“Dear Billy, The whole Brinkley gang is sending you lots of love and good wishes for a full and speedy recovery,” – Christie Brinkley
Brinkley touched on Joel’s extraordinary gift for giving voice and musical form to people’s thoughts and feelings. She noted, “You turn an arena of strangers into a living room full of friends as we all sway in unison. We’re always in the mood for your melodies and we all hope you’re feeling alright!”
The message of support from the public is helping carry Joel through this dark and hard time. His fans and family members are waiting with bated breath for his full recovery, anticipating his return to the stage.
