Teksti per Web: Patti Scialfa, wife of Bruce Springsteen and a long-time member of the E Street Band, recently opened up about a private health battle she’s been facing for several years. In the new documentary Rock Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, Scialfa revealed she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2019, a form of blood cancer that affects the immune system.
Scialfa explained that the diagnosis forced her to reconsider her role on tour. While she has occasionally joined her husband and the E Street Band on stage, she ultimately stepped back from regular touring. “My immune system is compromised, so I have to be careful about where I go and what I do,” she shared. “Now and then, I make it to a show and sing a few songs, and that’s been a special treat for me. It’s a different reality, but I’ve learned to accept it.”
In a recent interview with Asbury Park Press, Scialfa elaborated on her decision to reduce her involvement in Springsteen’s 2023 tour, which began in early February. She chose to focus on family, particularly spending time with her granddaughter, Lily Springsteen, who was born in July 2022. “I realized the band was in great hands with the lineup on stage. They had everything covered musically, and I felt it was a good moment to step away,” she said. “It also gave me time to work on my solo album, something I couldn’t fully concentrate on when Bruce was home.”
The decision allowed her to complete her new record, which she had been working on for years. “With Bruce constantly in the studio, I couldn’t focus on my own project. So, while stepping back from touring was tough, it gave me the space I needed to finish my album,” Scialfa added.
Health challenges have not only impacted Scialfa but Bruce Springsteen himself. In late 2023, Springsteen was forced to postpone the remainder of his tour dates due to treatment for peptic ulcer disease. Just months later, in mid-2024, he faced another setback when vocal issues prompted him to cancel several shows. Fortunately, his recovery was swift, and the delays were limited to a few performances. Both Springsteen and Scialfa have demonstrated resilience, navigating their health struggles while continuing to connect with fans.
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