Progressive rock icon and celebrated classical keyboardist Rick Wakeman has shared a significant health update with his fans, confirming he has successfully undergone brain surgery. The 76-year-old musician, famed for his work with bands like Yes and artists including David Bowie and Sir Elton John, has been diagnosed with Hydrocephalus.
Understanding the Condition and Treatment
Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition involving a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. If left untreated, this excess fluid can cause pressure that leads to brain damage. Last week, Wakeman underwent a procedure to implant a shunt—a thin tube—into his brain. According to the NHS, this device diverts the excess fluid to another part of the body where it can be safely absorbed into the bloodstream.
This recent operation is not the only health challenge Wakeman has faced this year. He also underwent successful spinal cord surgery, a series of events that forced him to postpone his planned American tour.
A Positive Prognosis and Upcoming Performances
Despite these serious health setbacks, the future looks bright for the virtuoso musician. In a message posted on his official website, Wakeman delivered encouraging news about his recovery. He confirmed that the shunt surgery was "very successful" and that he is now recuperating at home with the support of his wife and their pets, whom he affectionately calls "wonderful furry healing animals."
His medical team has advised him to take things easy for a while, but they have given him the all-clear for his performance schedule. Wakeman confirmed he will be fit to travel to America for the rescheduled tour with his son, Oliver Wakeman, next March. The 'Wakeman and Son' tour is highly anticipated by fans worldwide.
Furthermore, he has committed to performing at two charity concerts for Saving Strays in Norwich and Ipswich on December 19th and 20th of this year.
Piano Playing Unaffected and Grateful Thanks
In a characteristically witty remark, Wakeman reassured fans that his musical abilities remain intact. He jovially noted that his condition "doesn't seem to have affected my piano playing in any way as I still seem to be very capable of hitting the odd wrong note here and there when I lose my concentration!!"
He concluded his heartfelt update by expressing deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from well-wishers. "I'd like to thank everybody who wished me well over the last few months for a speedy recovery as it really did mean a lot to me," he wrote. This comeback follows his recent UK tour, which concluded in Bristol on October 29th, signalling a resilient return to the stage he has commanded for decades.
