At 75 years old, Rick Springfield has had a long and successful career in music and entertainment, but he recently discovered a lingering health issue that dates back over two decades.
In a new interview with People, the musician opened up about his unexpected brain damage diagnosis stemming from a severe fall 25 years ago.
Springfield explained that he only recently learned the full extent of his injuries after undergoing a full-body MRI scan.
“I fell 25 feet, hit my head, and then wood came down and hit my head, and then my head hit the stage again,” he shared. “I thought I had just broken my wrist, but on the scan I found out I have some brain damage from the fall, so I’m working on trying to repair that.”
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The incident occurred in 2000 during one of Springfield’s performances in Las Vegas. At the time, he was part of the theatrical production EFX at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. While he initially believed his injuries were limited to a broken wrist, the recent scan revealed deeper, long-term effects
Despite the diagnosis, Springfield remains proactive about his health. Earlier this year, he revealed that he had experimented with ketamine therapy as a treatment for depression.
“I wanted to see if it’d open a few things in my brain,” he told People. While he noted that he preferred his past experiences with LSD, he found the biggest improvement in managing his alcohol intake. “That has actually helped more than anything.”
Springfield’s approach to health is deeply influenced by his father’s passing. “My dad died from not wanting to know,” he explained. “He thought he had stomach cancer for years and never got it checked out.
When he finally collapsed one day at home, they found out it was an ulcer that burst, and he died from the loss of blood. It could have been fixed if he had gotten it checked out.”
His father’s experience left a lasting impression, shaping Springfield’s commitment to regular medical checkups and addressing potential health issues before they escalate.
“That was a giant message to me: If you want to live long, you have to be prepared for some bad news now and then. I could find out I have terminal cancer tomorrow and be dead in a year, but I can only do all I can do.”
Springfield’s resilience and willingness to confront his health challenges head-on reflect his enduring spirit. Whether it’s seeking alternative treatments, staying informed about his medical status, or sharing his journey with fans, the legendary musician continues to inspire.
Despite the hurdles, he remains dedicated to his well-being, proving that even decades after a major accident, it’s never too late to address the past and work toward a healthier future.
