'OUR PIANO MAN'
Christie Brinkley sends emotional message to ex Billy Joel after his brain disorder diagnosis
The singer canceled all of his tour dates during the week as he announced his health battle
BILLY Joel's ex-wife Christie Brinkley has publicly sent an emotional message after the singer's brain disorder diagnosis was revealed.
The 76-year-old singer recently opened up about his concerning battle in an emotional announcement months after he fell over on stage, with him even forced to cancel his remaining tour dates.
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During the week, he shared a statement on his social media explaining that he'd been diagnosed with "normal pressure hydrocephalus".
Christie, who was previously married to Billy from 1985 until their divorce in 1994, has now sent an emotional message to her ex amid his health battle.
Sharing a video montage on Instagram, the stunning star wrote a moving message to accompany it.
Christie penned the note to her ex on her Instagram page which read: "Dear Billy ,The whole Brinkley gang is sending you lots of love and good wishes for a full and speedy recovery."
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She went on: "I was looking for some cute photos of you and Alexa to send you, when I came across this clip from a recent concert.
"It made me laugh ..but it also reminded me of all the joy you create, and all the sensational sing a longs you’ve lead…
"You turn an arena of strangers into a living room full of friends as we all sway in unison ..
'YOU'RE OUR PIANO MAN'
"I’m sure I’m speaking for everyone in that room when I say please take good care of yourself, we all want you back in that white hot spotlight,you’re OUR piano man."
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Christie continued: "And we’re always in the mood for your melodies And we all hope you’re feeling alright!
"We Love You, the kids, me and an arena or two!"
Billy Joel Cancels Tour Amid Health Concerns: Fans React
One fan commented: "This is such a beautiful post. I’m sending Billy so much love and healing prayers. I’ve been in an arena with him and it’s literally magical."
Another added: "Awww… that’s extended Family love. Billy Joel is some kinda of special."
While a third wrote: "This is beautiful!! Sending Billy love and healing thoughts and prayers."
The pair, who were married for under a decade, had one child, a daughter named Alexa Ray Joel.
What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?
NORMAL pressure hydrocephalus occurs when spinal fluid builds up in the skull and starts pressing on the brain.
The condition can affect brain function, which can lead to a loss of memory, concentration, and motor skills.
Medical experts say that NPH often presents like degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer's and is usually noticed by loved ones.
And around 30 percent of those suffering from the condition do also have one of those diseases, according to Cleveland Clinic.
However, those who only have NPH can get relief if they have a major surgery.
The surgery involves getting a shunt, which is a device that can drain fluid from the skull affecting the brain.
Despite Billy and Christie's split, they remained friends after their divorce.
BILLY'S BRAIN DISORDER
When Billy's team revealed his health battle and diagnosis during the week, it was explained how he was canceling his tour because of his brain disorder.
"This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance," the statement read.
The statement also revealed how he had to go through physical therapy, and his doctors urged him to "stop performing while he recovers."
"Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health," the announcement said.
"He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage."
The Piano Man singer gave a heartfelt apology to fans for having to step away from performing.
"I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding," he said.
TOOK A TUMBLE
The cancellations came after Billy took a sudden tumble during a concert at the Mohegan Sun resort in Connecticut in February.
He was singing his hit It's Still Rock and Roll to Me when he lost his footing.
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After he lost balance, he suddenly fell on his back, leading concerned band members to rush over to help him up.
After he was helped to regain his footing, brave Billy kept rocking on and finished his performance triumphantly.
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