Iron Maiden Drummer Nicko McBrain Says He Had a Stroke in January
According to a statement he posted on Iron Maiden‘s website, the band’s drummer, Nicko McBrain, suffered a stroke in January that left him paralyzed on his right side. In the statement, he said that he did not say anything earlier because he was focused on recovery.
You can read McBrain’s full statement below but it goes without saying that we are all very relieved that he’s making a full recovery and still able to play and live his life. McBrain sounds very positive about the future.
“I hope this message finds you all well!
“The reason I’m writing to you all today is to let you know of a very serious health problem that I have been through. In January I had a stroke, thank the Lord it was a minor one referred to as a TIA. It left me paralyzed on my right side from my shoulder on down, of course I was very worried that my career was over but with the love and support from my wife, Rebecca and family, my doctors, especially Julie my OT (Occupational Therapist),and my Maiden family I was able to bounce back to somewhere near 70% recovered. After 10 weeks of intense therapy it was almost time to start rehearsals for our tour.
“I feel it’s important to let you know about this now instead of earlier as I was mainly concerned with doing my job and concentrating on getting back to 100% fitness. I’m not there yet but by the grace of God I’m getting better and stronger as the weeks go by.
“Thank you all for a most wonderful and magical tour so far, you have all been so amazing.
“Well that’s it from me. God bless you all, stay safe and well and I look forward to seeing you all somewhere in time. :-) :-)”
Maiden manager Ron Smallwood added:
“Nicko being Nicko he did not want to make a fuss and cause any distraction to the tour at the time but, now that he is sure he will soon get there, he thought you fans should know straight from him rather than by any rumours! We are all of course delighted he battled through this so well and look forward to many more tours together starting with the three Western Canada shows and Power Trip in California coming up in a couple of months time. We can’t wait! This tour is that good!”
Iron Maiden are scheduled to play Wacken tomorrow.
