John Paris, the drummer for Earth, Wind and Fire, has been placed in a medically induced coma after suffering a cardiac incident. The 58-year-old musician was rushed to hospital in critical condition last Thursday before the band's scheduled performance with Lionel Richie at San Francisco's Chase Center.
Earth, Wind and Fire shared an update on his health via a Facebook statement from bassist Verdine White's wife Shelly and friend Tazz Cole. The statement explained that Paris was put into a coma upon arrival at the hospital, and that he briefly woke up, opening his eyes and asking for his wife, Kathy Merrick, before his condition deteriorated.
Brief moment of hope followed by setback
According to the statement, John's brief awakening gave his family 'renewed hope,' but that moment was short-lived. 'Not long after, John's blood pressure began to rise, and he had difficulty breathing,' the statement read. Doctors made the difficult decision to sedate him again so his body could stabilize and continue receiving the best possible care.
The band's tour manager Toshi was at his side when the emergency unfolded, and the statement praised her 'steady presence, care, and support.' John's wife Kathy and daughter Kyla stayed by his bedside, along with close friend Eddie M, who sat with him daily.
Family reports small signs of hope
The statement added that while John remains under sedation and is being 'carefully monitored,' there have been 'small moments that give those closest to him hope.' Notably, John 'appears to show slight responses when music is played.' The family thanked fans for their support during their 'most difficult days' and promised to share updates when possible.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help the family, raising over $69,000 (£51,000) of its $75,000 (£55,400) target already.
Tour ends amid festival cancellation
Earth, Wind and Fire had been touring with Lionel Richie around North America since June, but the run ended on Friday, August 14, in Texas. Lionel Richie had been due to play in the UK later this month at the Sandringham Estate festival, but that event was scrapped due to low ticket sales. The Heritage Live concert series, which was to include performances from Christina Aguilera and Janet Jackson, was cancelled following 'far lower than average' interest, organisers confirmed in a statement.
