Fan appreciation expressed by Billy Joel's spouse following his disclosed brain health issue diagnosis.
Billy Joel's wife, Alexis Roderick Joel, expressed gratitude to fans and loved ones following the cancellation of the musician's concert dates due to his diagnosis with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). In a heartfelt message on Instagram, she acknowledged the family's gratitude for the care and quick diagnosis they received.
With the family by his side, Billy Joel, 76, revealed his diagnosis of NPH on Friday. This condition occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up inside or around the brain, disrupting certain functions. The fluid typically cushions and protects the brain and spinal cord, but too much can lead to NPH. Although the cause of the condition is unknown, it is more likely to occur in older people.
Dr. Jon LaPook, our News chief medical correspondent, explains that NPH typically comes on suddenly, and its cause remains unclear. The primary treatment for NPH is ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery, in which a shunt is implanted in the brain to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the abdomen for absorption.
Joel announced that he would undergo physical therapy and has been advised to abstain from performing during this time. As a result, he has cancelled concerts, including an eight-performance tour, through July 2026. The musician expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the stage once he has recovered.
In the accompanying Instagram post, Alexis Roderick Joel shared a family photo featuring herself, Billy Joel, and their two daughters, Della Rose and Remy Anne. Billy Joel is also the father of Alexa Ray Joel, his child with ex-wife Christie Brinkley.
In a reassuring statement, Roderick Joel expressed their hope for Joel's recovery and their anticipation of seeing fans in the future.
Kerry Breen, a news editor at ourNews.com, reported the story. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news, and issues including substance use.
- Billy Joel's wife, Alexis Roderick Joel, expressed her gratitude to fans and loved ones for their support following the cancellation of the musician's concert dates due to his diagnosis with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
- Dr. Jon LaPook, the News chief medical correspondent, explained that NPH typically comes on suddenly and its cause remains unclear, with the primary treatment being ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery.
- Alexis Roderick Joel, in a heartfelt message on Instagram, shared a family photo featuring herself, Billy Joel, and their two daughters, Della Rose and Remy Anne, and expressed her hope for Joel's recovery and their anticipation of seeing fans in the future.
- Kerry Breen, a news editor at ourNews.com, reported on the breaking news of Billy Joel's diagnosis and cancellation of concerts, including an eight-performance tour through July 2026, covering current events, breaking news, and issues including substance use.
