Steuart Smith, who toured with the award-winning rock band Eagles as a lead guitarist for many years, has recently announced his retirement from the group and the music industry after being diagnosed with Parkinsonism. He had joined the group back in 2001, as a replacement for Don Felder, and became a touring member. Accordingly, many fans have become curious about Smith’s retirement.
Here are all the details of the musician’s medical condition as well as his retirement announcement.
Steuart Smith gives health update and announces retirement
The veteran guitarist revealed in a statement that he was diagnosed with Parkinsonism while announcing his retirement from the Eagles.
“It is with profound regret that, due to performance issues associated with my recently diagnosed Parkinsonism, I find that I must bow out of my role with the Eagles while I can still do so gracefully,” said Steuart Smith in a statement. (via People)
The 72-year-old musician further noted that it had been a “great quarter of a century,” and despite having wanted to close out the year with the band, stressed that he stepped away because he had to “do what’s best for all concerned.”
In another statement, Don Henley, Eagles co-founder, expressed gratitude towards Smtih for his contributions to the band. “Steuart will be greatly missed, but he will always be a part of our musical family,” he added. “We know our many fans join us in wishing him well.”
As per Cleveland Clinic, Parkinsonism is an umbrella term for a condition affecting movement. These conditions include symptoms like slowed movement, stiffness, tremors, and brain deterioration. Its various causes include genetic mutation and reactions to medications and infections. However, this condition is treatable and not contagious. Parkinson’s disease is also the most common form of Parkinsonism, making up 80% percent of the cases related to it.
Additionally, Parkinsonism is much more common in those assigned male at birth, than female. The most common symptoms of the disease occur after 60 years of age. However, it is also possible for younger people to get it. Parkinsonism in youngsters is known as Juvenile Parkinsonism and it usually begins at 17 years of age.
Originally reported by Abdul Azim Naushad on ComingSoon.net.
