Support for Billy Joel After Health Diagnosis
Christy Brinkley, Billy Joel’s ex-wife, has expressed her support for the singer following his recent diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, a type of brain disorder.
Brinkley, 71, shared some moments on Instagram from one of Joel’s concerts at Madison Square Garden, where she and her daughter, Sailor Brinkley Cook, 26, were present.
The posts captured a special moment when Sailor, whom Brinkley shares with ex-husband Peter Cook, sang alongside Joel. They performed his song “You May Be Right” backstage at the event.
Brinkley wrote, “Dear Billy, the whole Brinkley gang has given you lots of love and good wishes.” She mentioned discovering this heartwarming clip and how it reminded her of the joy that Joel brings to his audiences. “You turn the arena of strangers into a living room full of friends when we all sway in unison,” she reflected.
She went on to urge Joel to take care of himself, expressing a desire to see him back in the spotlight soon. “We love you— the kids, me, and the arena!” she concluded.
Joel and Brinkley were married from 1985 until 1994 and share a daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, who is 39.
In a separate post, Alexa expressed her admiration for her father, calling him the “strongest and most resilient man” she knows and highlighting his commitment to recovery through physical therapy. She shared a touching black-and-white painting on her Instagram, depicting her childhood memories with him.
On Friday, Joel announced the cancellation of all his upcoming tour dates due to the diagnosis. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this condition leads to an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid, which can disrupt cognitive functions.
Joel’s statement revealed that the complications from this disorder have worsened due to recent performances, affecting his hearing, vision, and balance. He is currently undergoing physical therapy and has been advised to take a break for recovery.
This is not the first time Joel has had to postpone shows; he had earlier rescheduled performances due to illness after experiencing a fall during a concert in Connecticut.
