Ronnie McDowell’s Health Scare
Country music star Ronnie McDowell experienced a stroke during his performance at the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Pennsylvania this past June.
While performing on June 21st, McDowell struggled to express himself. His son and tour manager noticed and quickly intervened to check on him. In a recent interview, McDowell recalled telling his son, “No, I think I’m having a stroke.” Following this alarming moment, he was rushed to a nearby hospital where medical professionals confirmed the stroke.
At the hospital, doctors determined that surgery was needed to remove the blockage that caused the stroke. Fortunately, McDowell was informed that he could go home initially and didn’t require emergency surgery. He reminisced about the doctor’s reassuring words, stating, “I’ve been doing this for the last 30 years. I’ve listened to your heart, and you have the strongest heart I’ve ever heard.”
“Your mind ran through it really hard, and it shattered the plaque.”
Weeks later, McDowell underwent the surgery, which he described as successful but not without its complications. After waking up from anesthesia, he was informed that he would need to be put back to sleep due to certain issues. His son mentioned that the hematoma, a result of the thin blood his father was managing, complicated matters.
Recovering from the surgery was no easy feat. McDowell described it as “very unbearable” due to the swelling and discomfort but expressed that he was gradually improving. He also took the opportunity to thank his fans for their incredible support throughout this challenging time. “You should see all the emails piling up; it’s heartwarming to know how much people care,” he shared.
Now at 75 years old, McDowell acknowledges a renewed appreciation for life, especially after facing such a health scare. He reflected, “In just a second, you can die. When the ticker is ticking, you’re going to leave here anyway.” He ended with a thought that encapsulated his experience, saying that it’s both terrifying and wonderful how life unfolds.
McDowell first rose to fame in the 1970s with his tribute song to Elvis Presley, “The King Is Gone.” He went on to release numerous hits throughout the 70s and 80s, solidifying his place in country music history.
