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Patti Scialfa reveals multiple myeloma diagnosis in new Springsteen documentary

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Patti Scialfa reveals multiple myeloma diagnosis in new Springsteen documentary

As a longtime admirer of the E Street Band and their resilient spirit, I find myself deeply moved by Patti Scialfa’s courage and strength. Having battled multiple myeloma for six years, she continues to inspire us with her unwavering determination and grace.

For approximately six years, Patti Scialfa, who is part of the E Street Band and married to Bruce Springsteen, has been fighting a type of blood cancer.

71-year-old Scialfa disclosed this in “Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band,” a documentary about their world tour that premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on Sunday. However, she was unable to attend the premiere of the film, which was attended by Springsteen, his manager Jon Landau, and bandmate Steven Van Zandt.

The artist mentioned that she’s been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a condition where malignant plasma cells accumulate excessively in the bone marrow, pushing out normal blood cells, as per the Mayo Clinic’s explanation.

For me, touring has become a difficulty due to health reasons. Back in 2018, during our play on Broadway [‘Springsteen on Broadway’], I was identified with an early-stage multiple myeloma diagnosis. This condition weakens my immune system, as explained in the documentary by Scialfa.

She mentioned that she needs to be mindful about her decisions regarding actions and destinations, due to her health condition.

Occasionally, I attend a performance or two and even get to perform a few tunes on stage myself. It’s been delightful, and this is my regular routine at the moment. I’m content with this setup, as she shared during an interview in the documentary that captures her career highlights through the years by showcasing footage of her performances on stage.

Since 1984, Scialfa has been a valued member of the E Street Band, being the sole female in the group. Her roles include providing backing vocals, playing both tambourine and guitar. She tied the knot with ‘the Boss’ in 1991, following his divorce from actress Julianne Phillips in 1989. For many years, she has shared the stage and harmonies with the iconic 74-year-old musician during their tours.

Scialfa expresses that singing ‘Fire’ is always enjoyable, and it provides a unique, intimate glimpse into their relationship. In the movie, there are clips of them dueting. She adds that performing with Bruce again is exhilarating. Every night of this tour offers an opportunity for the band to revel together.

In recent times, Springsteen has been making health news as well. Last year, the iconic singer behind “Dancing in the Dark” and “Born in the U.S.A.” had to delay several shows due to peptic ulcer disease, an ailment not discussed in the documentary. Later, he and the E Street Band decided to postpone their entire 2023 tour to allow him more time for treatment.

The tour continued from March onwards with 11 postponed concerts across the U.S., featuring stops at SoFi Stadium among others. Following this, the tour journeyed through Europe and then back to the United States. On Friday, the tour will reach Baltimore, followed by Asbury Park, N.J., two days later. The tour in Canada extends from now until late November. After a pause, the band is set to revisit Europe in 2025.

Last week, during an interview with The Times, Van Zandt revealed that Springsteen is thriving exceptionally.

The guitarist commented, “He’s fully recovered now, as if nothing ever happened.” I believe our decision to pause, be cautious, give him additional rest, and allow him to heal was correct. He’s been fantastic, in excellent condition lately.

Starting October 25th, you can stream a documentary that delves deeply into the behind-the-scenes preparations for the ongoing global tour of 2023-2024, where the rock star joined forces with his band again after a lengthy break to focus on individual projects and a Broadway production.

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2024-09-09 22:31

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