Billy Joel is opening up about undergoing brain surgery following his diagnosis with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
The 77-year-old “Piano Man” singer revealed that he had a shunt implanted in his brain after experiencing problems with his balance, and he’s sharing an encouraging update on his recovery.
During a new appearance on SiriusXM’s The Billy Joel Channel, Billy explained that he initially noticed something was wrong when he began feeling unsteady on his feet.
Why Did Billy Joel Undergo Brain Surgery?
“I had this sense of being on a boat, like this rocking motion. I wasn’t steady on my feet,” he recalled.
After meeting with a neurologist, Billy was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, also known as NPH. His doctors recommended surgery to implant a shunt in his brain.
“I agreed to do the shunt and I had a surgery, and they implanted a shunt in my brain and it actually improved things,” he said. “My memory got better, my balance got a little better, my ability to function was better.”
Why Did Doctors Tell Billy Joel to Stop Performing?
Billy also revealed that his doctors advised him to stop performing for the time being because of the potential impact that playing loud rock concerts could have on his condition.
According to Billy, doctors told him performing was giving him “something like a concussion every time I did a show” and that he “could be losing more brain cells the more shows I did.”
“I realized that means I shouldn’t be doing this right now,” he said. “I got to improve. They don’t want me to stress too much, so I’m doing physical therapy. I’m doing whatever it is they tell me to do.”
How Is Billy Joel Doing Now?
Despite his health challenges, Billy reassured fans that he’s doing okay.
“I just want people to know, don’t worry about me,” he said. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m here. I’m still here.”
Billy Joel revealed his diagnosis last May and canceled his scheduled concerts at the time in order to focus on his health.
Listen to Billy Joel discuss his health and recovery below.
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