Great White founder Jack Russell retires after dementia and MSA diagnosis
He's unable to continue
Former Great White vocalist Jack Russell has retired from touring after being diagnosed with two degenerative conditions, Lewy Body Dementia and Multiple System Atrophy.
The 63-year-old rocker, who co-founded Great White in Los Angeles in 1977, issued a statement to fans explaining he is unable to tour due to his deteriorating health.
"To my fans and friends, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I must announce my retirement from the road,” Jack Russell wrote.
“After a recent diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) in May 2024, I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve.
“Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a wonder."
Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), also known in the US as Lewy body dementia, is one of the most common types of dementia.
Symptoms include problems with thinking and understanding, memory loss, hallucinations, confusion, sleepiness, disturbed sleep, fainting spells, depression and anxiety.
Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare condition of the nervous system that causes gradual damage to nerve cells in the brain.
This affects balance, movement and the autonomic nervous system, which controls several basic functions, such as breathing, digestion and bladder control.
Jack Russell’s retirement comes just weeks after he announced his autobiography , The True Tale of Mista Bone: A Rock + Roll Narrative, which was written by author Katelyn Louise "K.L." Doty.
It features a sentimental foreword by Lita Ford, with additional commentary from Eric Singer, Eddie Trunk, John Kalodner, Kip Winger and others.
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