Patti Scialfa Reveals Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis Impacting E Street Band Tour Participation
Patti Scialfa, wife of Bruce Springsteen, has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, since 2018. In the documentary "Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band," she shared her health struggles, explaining that it has limited her participation in the E Street Band’s current tour. Scialfa mentioned that her immune system is affected, requiring her to be cautious about her activities. She has been largely absent from the band's performances to focus on her health and her solo music project.
Patti Scialfa, wife of musician Bruce Springsteen, has shared her ongoing battle with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer she was diagnosed with in 2018. This revelation came during the premiere of the documentary "Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band" at the Toronto Film Festival.
Patti Scialfa's Health Challenges Impact Touring
Scialfa, 71, addressed her health struggles as a significant reason for her reduced presence in the E Street Band. She stated that touring has presented challenges for her due to her medical condition. In the documentary, Scialfa explained, “This affects my immune system so I just have to be careful what I choose to do and where I choose to go.” Despite her challenges, she mentioned occasional performances where she enjoys singing a few songs on stage, describing these moments as a treat.
Longstanding Career with E Street Band
Having been a vital member of the E Street Band since 1984, Scialfa married Springsteen in 1991. During the documentary, she revealed that her diagnosis came while she was involved in the "Springsteen on Broadway" concert residency. Scialfa has largely missed the ongoing tour, which commenced in February 2023 and is set to conclude in July 2025, to prioritize her health needs.
Understanding Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that originates in plasma cells, a form of white blood cell. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms can include bone pain, fatigue, and mental fogginess, among others. Scialfa previously shared with Asbury Park Press that her absence from the tour last year was partly due to her focus on a solo album and spending time with her new granddaughter, Lily, born in July 2022.
Focus on Personal Projects
Reflecting on her choice to step back from performances, Scialfa noted that, during the tour, she felt less essential with numerous musicians on stage. She mentioned, “I didn’t feel as needed in a way because there were a lot of musicians on stage.” Additionally, she took the opportunity to work on her solo record, stating that it was challenging to do so while Springsteen was at home in the studio.
Springsteen's Health Matters
Bruce Springsteen, now 74, has also faced health challenges throughout the ongoing tour. He postponed several of his tour dates from September to December 2023 due to peptic ulcer disease and had to reschedule three European shows in May due to vocal issues. The documentary includes candid moments from his latest tour and interviews with E Street Band members, highlighting both personal insights and reflections on future performances.
Upcoming Streaming Release
"Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band" is set to be available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+ starting October 25, bringing fans closer to the experiences of both Springsteen and Scialfa during this challenging time.
