Billy Joel has announced the cancellation of 17 shows he booked at stadiums across North America and England, due to his recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).
In a statement, Joel and his team said the condition had been exacerbated by recent concert performances, “leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.” Under his doctor’s orders, Joel is said to be undergoing “specific physical therapy” and has been advised to stop performing while he recovers
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience,” said Joel. “Thank you for understanding.”
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NPH is a brain disorder when there is a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in an area in the center of the brain. According to the Hydrocephalus Association, the disorder can affect areas of the brain related to walking, thinking and bladder control.
In Friday’s statement, Joel and his team conclude with gratitude for fans and the note that Joel “looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.” Information on ticket refunds is also included, with refunds automatically being processed back to the original payment used for the purchase.
Back in March, Joel postponed eight stadium concerts he was scheduled to do through July, citing an undisclosed “medical condition” and saying that his “health must come first.” It remains unconfirmed if NPH is the same condition that caused those initial cancellations.
At the time, the announcement said Joel was “expected to make a full recovery” after a recent surgery, and was undergoing doctor-supervised physical therapy.
From Variety US