Neil Diamond gets candid about Parkinson's disease diagnosis, denial

Neil Diamond, the legendary singer-songwriter who has been delighting fans for over five decades, recently revealed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. In a candid interview with the AARP magazine, Neil opened up about his initial denial of the diagnosis and how it took him some time to come to terms with his condition.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. Symptoms can include tremors, slowness of movement, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms.

In the interview, Neil spoke about how he had noticed certain symptoms for some time, such as a stiffness in his fingers and a sudden difficulty with the guitar. Despite these warning signs, he initially refused to acknowledge that anything was wrong. He would tell himself that he was just getting older, and that his aches and pains were just a normal part of aging.

However, when he finally went to see a doctor, he received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Neil admitted that it was a difficult moment for him, and that he went through a period of denial. However, he eventually came to realize that he needed to take control of his own health and well-being.

Neil stressed the importance of staying positive and optimistic, even in the face of difficult challenges. He emphasized that he continues to write and create music, and that he refuses to let his condition define him.

Neil’s story is an inspiring reminder that anyone can face adversity, but that it is possible to overcome it with grit and resilience. Parkinson’s disease is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and Neil’s openness about his diagnosis helps bring attention to this issue. By sharing his story, he is helping to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and inspire others to keep living their lives to the fullest.