Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris remains in a medically induced coma after suffering a medical emergency ahead of a scheduled performance with Lionel Richie. The 58-year-old briefly regained consciousness and asked to leave the hospital, but doctors sedated him again after his blood pressure rose and he struggled to breathe.
Doctors Sedate Again After Brief Awakening
Paris was initially placed in the induced coma after arriving at the hospital last week. According to an update from a Facebook page created by Verdine White's wife, Shelly, doctors wanted to provide him with critical care. At one point, when he awoke, he asked for his wife Kathy Merrick.
However, the improvement was short-lived as he began struggling with his blood pressure and breathing again, leading doctors to sedate him once more to help his body stabilise and continue receiving care.
Band Cancels Show with Lionel Richie
The news of his emergency emerged as the band was forced to cancel a major concert with Lionel Richie earlier in the month. The announcement revealed that a band member had suffered a medical emergency. The funk band, known for hits like "September," shared the news just before they were due to take the stage with the "Hello" and "All Night Long" singer, leaving thousands of fans already inside the arena.
A statement posted later on Instagram confirmed the concert would be rescheduled. The band wrote: "We are unable to perform as scheduled tonight at Chase Center in San Francisco due to a medical emergency involving a member of our band. As a result, tonight's show with Lionel Richie will be rescheduled, with a new date to be announced soon. Ticket holders should retain their tickets, which will be honoured for the new date, or refunds will be available at the point of purchase. We sincerely apologise for the unexpected change and appreciate everyone’s understanding."
Fundraiser Nears Target
Shelly has set up a GoFundMe page to support John's family and provide updates on his condition. She reports small encouraging moments recently, noting that the star appears to show slight responses when music is played. The fundraiser is almost at its $75,000 target.
The page reads: "For decades, John Paris has been the heartbeat behind countless unforgettable performances with Earth, Wind & Fire. Fans around the world know and love him not only for his extraordinary talent behind the drums, but also for his kindness, infectious sense of humor, and the joy he has shared throughout his life."
It continues: "Recently, just before taking the stage in San Francisco, John experienced a critical medical emergency and was rushed to the hospital. That evening's concert was canceled, and John is now receiving the care he needs, surrounded by the love of his family and the prayers of countless friends and fans."
His wife, Kathy Merrick, a member of the legendary group Honey Cone, has remained by his side, along with their daughter, Kyla. With their home in the Los Angeles area, this unexpected medical crisis has brought not only emotional heartbreak, but also the growing burden of travel, lodging, meals, countless unexpected expenses, and the unforeseen challenges that lie ahead.
