Savatage’s Jon Oliva Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and Ménière’s Disease
When progressive metal act Savatage takes the stage at next year’s Monsters Of Rock in São Paulo, Brazil, their original frontman and current keyboardist Jon Oliva won’t be there. Having been recently diagnosed with some serious health issues, including multiple sclerosis and Ménière’s disease, he’s going to need to spend a significant amount of time recovering from his illnesses.
Oliva revealed his current health issues in a statement he made via social media. In his posts, he explained why he won’t be at the show and how his health issues, including the fact that he previously broke his spine in three places, have affected his daily life.
“Hello Savatage fans, this is Jon Oliva. I want to set a few things straight for everyone. First of all, I am very excited for Johnny, Chris, Zak, Jeff & Al to play again. I feel it’s important for the fans to enjoy our music live, and believe me these guys will kick ass.
“As far as I go, I was going to do these shows but unfortunately, I’ve run into more health issues. I want you all to know that if there was any way I could do these shows I would, but my health issues are more serious than I originally thought. As most of you know I fractured my spine in three places and have recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis as well as Meniere’s Disease. My doctors are working with me to get healthy again.
“I am working closely with the guys and will be involved in every other aspect of the show. I am 100 percent behind the guys doing this and I promise I will return asap.
“In the meantime, I am working in the studio on new material I love you all and thank you for understanding my situation, I know my brothers will deliver the goods.”
Ménière’s disease is a condition where issues with the inner ear can cause symptoms like vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and a feeling of congestion in the ear.
All of that is a major bummer. The dude just wants to play with his band but can’t due to health concerns. All he can do now is try to recover and get better. We at MetalSucks want to wish him the best in that effort and hope to see him on stage again soon.
