‘Center of Our World’: Billy Joel’s Wife Opens Up About His Brain Diagnosis

Billy Joel’s wife, Alexis Roderick Joel, is the latest to speak out and thank fans for the unconditional support they have received. The new statement comes after the 76-year-old iconic singer revealed he was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. Also known as NPH, the singer and his team announced the cancellation of his upcoming concerts.

Alexis Roderick Joel Thanks Fans and Shares Hope

On May 26, Roderick Joel shared a statement via Joel’s official Instagram. She stated, “Thank you for the outpouring of love and support. We are so grateful for the wonderful care and swift diagnosis we received.” She continued, “Bill is beloved by so many, and to us, he is a father and husband who is at the center of our world. We are hopeful for his recovery. We look forward to seeing you all in the future.”

NPH is a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up over time in the brain’s ventricles. Joel announced his condition in a statement on May 23, saying his health had worsened due to recent concert performances. This had unfortunately led to issues with his vision, balance, and hearing.

Family Members Share Messages of Love and Support

Now, the “Piano Man” Singer is receiving physical therapy tailored to his needs under a doctor’s supervision. But he received instructions to refrain from performing until his condition improves. “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 statement read.

Following the announcement of his diagnosis, his daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, also paid tribute to the singer alongside his ex-wife Christie Brinkley. Alexa shared a black-and-white image of artwork that showed a father holding a young girl, writing, “We love you and we got you, Pop!”

She added, “I just wanted to thank you all for the beautiful outpouring of love and support amid the recent news of my father’s health diagnosis. My dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known, and he’s entirely committed to making a full recovery with ongoing physical therapy treatments as he continues to regain his strength.”

Brinkley also shared her message: “Dear Billy, the whole Brinkley gang is sending you lots of love and good wishes for a full and speedy recovery. 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 songs you’ve led. You turn an arena of strangers into a living room full of friends as we all sway in unison. 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.'”

“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 a whole bunch of full arenas.”

Get better soon, Mr. Joel!