John Paris, the drummer for Earth, Wind and Fire, has been placed in a medically induced coma after briefly waking up following a cardiac incident. The 58-year-old musician was rushed to hospital after emergency crews were called to San Francisco's Chase Center, where the band were set to perform with Lionel Richie last Thursday.
Band shares health update
Earth, Wind and Fire have shared an update on Paris's health on Facebook through bassist Verdine White's wife Shelly and friend Tazz Cole. The statement said that Paris was placed into a coma upon arriving at the hospital, and that he had briefly opened his eyes and asked for his wife Kathy Merrick, giving his family 'renewed hope'.
'Sadly, that moment was short-lived,' the statement continued. 'Not long after, John's blood pressure began to rise, and he had difficulty breathing. His doctors made the difficult decision to sedate him again so his body could stabilize and continue receiving the best possible care.'
Family and fans show support
Paris's wife Kathy and daughter Kyla have stayed by his bedside, along with close friend Eddie M. The band's tour manager Toshi was at his side when the emergency unfolded, and was praised for her 'steady presence, care, and support'.
The statement said Paris remains under sedation while being 'carefully monitored' by his medical team, who will 'determine the safest path forward'. It added that Paris 'appears to show slight responses when music is played'.
A GoFundMe page has been launched to help the family, raising over $69,000 (£51,000) of its $75,000 (£55,400) target. Earth, Wind and Fire had been on tour with Lionel Richie around North America since June, with the run ending on Friday, August 14 in Texas.
