Neil Diamond shares a depressing health update, admitting that he “can’t really fight this thing.”
Neil Diamond, the renowned singer of the hit song “Sweet Caroline,” has opened up about his struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. Initially diagnosed in 2018, Diamond has only recently come to terms with the reality of his condition.
In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Diamond shared that he had been in denial when he first received the diagnosis, unwilling to face its consequences. Over time, however, he has learned to accept the challenges presented by Parkinson’s Disease.
The 82-year-old music legend, has adopted a more pragmatic outlook regarding his battle with Parkinson’s disease. He has acknowledged that the condition is not something he can fight indefinitely and has learned to accept it.
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Diamond shared his thoughts, stating that there is no cure for Parkinson’s and it is not something one can simply put aside and return to normal life. However, he has come to terms with his limitations and continues to enjoy his good days.
“I can’t really fight this thing, so I had to accept it, this Parkinson’s Disease,” Diamond said.
“There’s no cure. There’s no getting away from it. You can’t just say, ‘OK, enough already. Let’s get back to life.’ It doesn’t work like that. But I’ve come to accept what limitations I have and still have great days.”
Parkinson’s disease, as detailed by the National Institutes of Health, is a progressive illness that can lead to tremors and difficulties with coordination. The disease is well-known across the globe, but that didn’t stop Diamond from initially trying to dismiss his diagnosis.
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Diamond shared with CBS that when his doctor informed him of the condition, he was not prepared to accept it. He recalled saying, “Oh, OK. I’ll see you, you know, whenever you wanna see me. But I have work to do, so I’ll see you later.” Despite the disease’s reputation, Diamond’s initial response was to downplay its significance and focus on his work.
In 2017, Neil Diamond embarked on a tour across the United States and Europe to celebrate his 50-year career in music. However, in 2018, he revealed that he was canceling the upcoming Australia and New Zealand portion of the tour due to the challenges posed by Parkinson’s disease, leading him to retire from concert touring.
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Despite the initial disappointment, the singer has recently found tranquility in his life. He has come to terms with his condition and its implications for the future, embracing a newfound sense of peace.
“I like it,” Diamond said. “I find that I like myself better. I’m easier on people, I’m easier on myself. And the beat goes on, and it will go on long after I’m gone.”
We hope that beloved singer Neil Diamond is in good health and enjoying life. As a highly admired artist, he has inspired many with his incredible talent.
