John Paris, the drummer from the R&B band Earth, Wind & Fire, has woken from a medically induced coma. However, he now faces having to have two major surgeries as part of his treatment.
The 58-year-old, who first joined the group in 2001 as its drummer, remains in intensive care following a medical emergency earlier this month. However, it appears to be an encouraging sign that he has been deemed well enough to no longer be sedated. According to reports, his blood pressure and breathing have both stabilized.
Little information has been revealed about exactly why Paris was admitted to hospital and the reason he was placed in an induced coma. Previous updates confirmed that Paris had briefly awoken from the coma several days ago but doctors had been forced to sedate him a second time due to complications he experienced.
John Paris Wakes From Induced Coma
In an update provided to People by Paris’ spokesperson, doctors have been able to carry out further tests since his condition has improved. This has led to the determination that he will require two major surgeries in the coming days in order to improve his health further.
“Since our last few updates, there have been both encouraging moments and new challenges,” said the spokesperson. “As we’ve said from the beginning, recovery isn’t a straight line, and John’s journey continues to remind us of that every day.”
They added, “Many of you may remember that earlier in John’s journey, he briefly awakened before needing to be sedated again. Since then, we’ve experienced another significant milestone—John woke up again. This time, there was encouraging progress.”
Paris’ health crisis began August 6 when Earth, Wind & Fire abruptly canceled its scheduled performance with Lionel Richie at Chase Center in San Francisco. At the time, the band only confirmed that a member of the group had experienced a medical emergency. It was subsequently revealed that Paris had been hospitalized and was undergoing treatment.
His wife has also provided an additional update, suggesting that he still faces considerable challenges ahead. She also asked for the public to pray for Paris and their daughter Kayla. “John has already overcome obstacles that once seemed impossible, and while there is still a long road ahead, each step forward gives everyone around him renewed hope,” she said.
John Paris Has Played With Earth, Wind & Fire for Decades
Paris has been part of Earth, Wind & Fire since 2001. He joined the band as a drummer and vocalist following the departure of long-time drummer Sonny Emory and has become a fan-favorite due to his energetic performances.
Emory has since stepped in temporarily for the group as Paris continues his recovery.
Paris is also a noted singer, songwriter, and saxophonist and has performed with a wide array of artists over the years. This includes the likes of Sheila E., Patti LaBelle, Jimmy Cliff, and Bob Dylan. He also performed drums on Kelly Clarkson’s 2017 album “Meaning of Life.”
