Importance Score: 62 / 100 🔴
Elton John Opens Up About Impaired Vision Following Eye Infection
Legendary musician Elton John is providing a candid account of his current health struggles, revealing that he is grappling with vision issues stemming from a recent eye infection. The acclaimed artist, aged 78, disclosed that the infection has caused lasting damage, significantly affecting his eyesight.
Impact of Vision Loss on Daily Life
In a recent interview with the Times of London, John detailed the extent of his vision impairment. “I can see you, but I can’t see TV, I can’t read,” he explained. The inability to engage in simple pleasures and observe his children’s activities has been particularly disheartening. “I can’t see my boys playing rugby and soccer, and it has been a very stressful time because I’m used to soaking it all up,” John admitted.
The celebrated “Your Song” performer, father to Zachary, 14, and Elijah, 12, with husband David Furnish, described his present condition as “distressing.”
“You get emotional, but you have to get used to it because I’m lucky to have the life I have,” John continued. He emphasized a sense of gratitude despite the challenges. “I still have my wonderful family, and I can still see something out of [my left eye]. So you say to yourself, ‘Just get on with it.’”
Initial Revelation of Health Issues
The hitmaker initially shared news of his diminished eyesight in November. He recounted to ABC News’ Robin Roberts, “I had an infection in the South of France. It’s been four months since I haven’t been able to see, and my left eye’s not the greatest. I’m, kind of, stuck in the moment.”
Uncertainty Surrounding Future Music Career
The severity of the eye infection raised concerns for the EGOT winner about his capacity to continue making music. “I can’t see a lyric, for start,” John elaborated. “We’re taking an initiative to try and get it better, but at the moment, that’s really what we’re concentrating on.”
He further explained the pervasive impact of his impaired vision: “It’s never fortunate for anything like this to happen. It kinda floored me, and I can’t see anything. I can’t read anything, I can’t watch anything.”
Public Acknowledgement of Vision Problems
A month later, at the premiere of “The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical,” a production he was involved in, John openly addressed the audience regarding his eyesight loss. “As some of you may know, I have had issues and now I have lost my sight,” the iconic figure stated at the Dominion Theatre, as reported by the Daily Mail.
“I haven’t been able to see the performance, but I have enjoyed listening to it,” John added, focusing on appreciating the auditory aspects of the musical.
Support from Husband David Furnish
Furnish, 62, who married John in 2014, provided support by assisting his partner off the stage after his address to the audience.
John publicly acknowledged Furnish’s support, declaring in his speech, “To my husband, who’s been my rock, because I haven’t been able to come to many of the previews because as you know, I’ve lost my eyesight, so it’s hard for me to see it, but I love to hear it.”
Continuing Musical Pursuits
Despite the uncertainties, John has continued to engage with his music career, recently releasing his latest album, “Who Believes in Angels?” with Brandi Carlile.
He recounted his collaboration with Carlile to the Times, “I knew her because I had bought her album and she’s the most remarkable singer, so I said, ‘Absolutely, but you’ll have to come to Vegas because I’m stuck here.’ We became friends and I took an interest in where she was going.”
John offered insight into the album’s sound, “I even bought her an electric guitar. People thought ‘Who Believes in Angels?’ would be Americana, laid-back. No. It’s upbeat and rocking.”
Prioritizing Family
Although his passion for music remains, John emphasized that his primary focus is now his family. “I always said I wanted to die on stage. Now I want my gravestone to read, ‘He was a great dad,’” the entertainer confessed. “My career has been wonderful, but the kids are what matters.”
He further elaborated on his approach to parenting, “We’re making sure they’re OK, making sure they’re appreciative and not spoiling them too much because, you know, I’m Elton John,” highlighting the importance of balance and groundedness for his children.
Enthusiasm for New Album
On Friday, John expressed his excitement for his new musical project on Instagram. “This album is raw, unexpected, and one of the most exciting projects I’ve ever been part of. I feel revitalized, Brandi is at her absolute best, and together we’ve created something entirely new,” he wrote.
He extended his gratitude to those involved: “To all of you who have been part of this journey – thank you. Your love and support mean the world, and I can’t wait for you to hear this.”