Singer and songwriter Carly Simon announced on Monday that she has been living with Parkinson’s disease. In a statement addressing public inquiries about her reduced visibility, Simon explained that she has spent recent time adjusting to the diagnosis and determining how openly to discuss it.
Simon, who turned 83 last month, described the variable nature of the condition’s effects on her daily life. She noted that some days bring significant fatigue that impedes basic functioning, while others allow greater mobility and mental clarity. The musician emphasized that Parkinson’s progresses unpredictably and does not follow any predetermined schedule. She identified apathy as a particularly difficult symptom—describing it as a neurological challenge distinct from depression or laziness that affects motivation and engagement.
Simon’s health challenges began following knee and hip replacement surgeries necessitated by arthritis. She received her Parkinson’s diagnosis through consultation at the Mayo Clinic. During the same period, she underwent surgical removal of basal cell carcinoma on her face, which altered her appearance and contributed to her withdrawal from public activities. The combination of mobility limitations, the cancer diagnosis, and emotional consequences of the facial surgery prompted her decision to reduce public engagement.
The recording process for her upcoming album Comes in Waves provided structure during this period. Scheduled for release on 14 August, the project gave her purpose without requiring her to leave her residence. Simon credited music with sustaining her through multiple difficult periods of her life and emphasized that illness, while life-altering, need not consume one’s entire existence. She concluded by expressing gratitude to her medical team, family, and friends, affirming that despite moving more slowly and accepting daily variation, she remains actively present.
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