Eric Clapton’s Health
Reports in a British newspaper say that Eric Clapton has incurable damage to his nervous system which has made it difficult to play the guitar. According to Eric, “I’ve had quite a lot of pain over the last year. It started with lower back pain, and turned into what they call peripheral neuropathy – which is where you feel like you have electric shocks going down your leg.
Eric who is 71 added, “[It’s] hard work to play the guitar and I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that it will not improve. Because I’m in recovery from alcoholism and addiction to substances, I consider it a great thing to be alive at all. By rights I should have kicked the bucket a long time ago. For some reason I was plucked from the jaws of hell and given another chance.”
He told Classic Rock Magazine, “I can still play. I mean, it’s hard work sometimes, the physical side of it – just getting old, man, is hard. I don’t know how I survived – the Seventies especially. There was one point there where they were flying me to hospital in St Paul [Minnesota] and I was dying, apparently – I had three ulcers and one of them was bleeding. I was drinking three bottles of brandy and taking handfuls of codeine, and I was close to checking out. It’s amazing that I’m still here, really.”
“But I love to play, still. I sit in the corner of our front room with a guitar, and I play in the morning and I rest in the afternoon… Life is good.’ Eric released his 23rd album, I Still Do, but the good news is fans should not consider it a farewell. We all wish Eric continued health and happiness and thank him for his music.
Meanwhile we can look back on a career that started with The Yardbirds before Eric moved onto John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, then Cream, Blind Faith, before working with Delaney and Bonnie with George Harrison, which lead to Derek and The Dominos, and then a solo career that has produced so many career highlights…and so much great music.
UK English
Ruth J Gwyn
June 11, 2016 at 9:20 am
Eric, How do you deal with the peripheral neuropathy? Is the pain there all the time? Glad to hear you are still able to play music. Blessings to you and your family.
Shelly
June 11, 2016 at 6:57 pm
We have a device that helps with the pain and numbness of peripheral neuropathy. http://Www.neurolumen.com
Michael Roe
June 11, 2016 at 8:36 pm
I take 900mg of gabapentin daily. Is takes care of the leg problem.
Fl Patty
June 12, 2016 at 9:23 am
That’s it.
Gabapentin and a T.E.N.S unit. Offers great relief.
Because some of us are getting old too. This helps
John Weisenberg
June 16, 2016 at 10:04 pm
Eric, I am a fellow musician/drummer and I also have Neuropathy and have had to make adjustments in my stick grip. I now take B vitamans, Tumeric & Fish oil. Seems to help along with streatching excercises. Try the vitamans & herbs, You might be suprised. Good Luck-Be Well, John Weisenberg Rock ON
Bill
June 18, 2016 at 12:38 am
Yes, it is chronic, it happened to me starting in 2011. Lost all feeling in my hands and legs, it’s called CIDP. I too lost the ability to play. It sucks.
Don
November 16, 2016 at 6:41 am
I too live with this, sigh…the pain is constant until I go into deep mediation…with medication smoking pot helps with RSO
!
Eric Clapton
“I’ve had quite a lot of pain over the last year.
It started with lower back pain, and turned into what they call peripheral neuropathy – which is where you feel like you have electric shocks going down your leg.(Eric Clapton)
Don S.
November 16, 2016 at 6:47 am
I too live with this condition, pain 24/7.All that helps is pain management which includes pain meds, Pot and RSO, along with deep Meditation..Sending Healing energy Please heal Eric, if you need a soul take me, I know what coming since I died once before. I have no fear, Brightest Blessings…..Don
warren
June 11, 2016 at 9:29 am
u still give me happiness with your music thank you.
Andrea
June 11, 2016 at 9:36 am
I would love to have the opportunity to help you with your pain, have been a healer for about 20 years and I’m blessed with the ability to help people with all types of pain. Of Course I am a lifelong fan 🙂
Theresa
June 11, 2016 at 1:43 pm
Have been a fan of your music for a very long time and got to see you live a few times too. Thank you for sharing your gift. Regarding your neuropathy has anyone suggested medical Marijuana, I know you are in recovery so not sure if this is an option for you but it does help with nerve pain and I am sure dosage can be adjusted for you. Hope you can continue playing for us and for yourself. Peace!!!!!!
Jason
June 13, 2016 at 8:05 pm
Recommended Pot to an alcoholic and drug abuser isn’t very wise.
Debbie
August 17, 2016 at 12:50 pm
Ya think? I was thinking the same thing and put it perfect .
Laurie
June 11, 2016 at 7:55 pm
I have this too and find that extra doses of magnesium and more calcium relieve the symptoms incredibly. So easy. Please try this.
Barbara
June 14, 2016 at 8:15 pm
Laurie, Add D3 but especially B12 to that. Mine is totally gone!
Peehood Man
June 11, 2016 at 9:37 pm
A healer? Only real healers are medical doctors, where did you get your degree? Bullshit University?
Randy
June 12, 2016 at 1:07 pm
Pee head:
Healers not only exist, but do in fact heal, and are recognized by that medical establishment you worship. Try to be less of an a-hole, so when that day comes, and it will, that you will need to reach to them, when your mainstream therapies come up wanting you might be ready. You already sound like you’re in pain, because you are being one.
Beverly
June 12, 2016 at 3:53 pm
Real healers got him where he is today. Back off and stop drinking the koolaid.
John green
June 11, 2016 at 9:37 am
Eric, you’re entitled to take it easy now. After all you have been through and the enjoyment you’ve given to others. Give thanks for the “second chance “, that you have been given. God bless. John.
Henny Schelle
June 11, 2016 at 9:37 am
I wish you all the best Eric, and a lotta strenght, the blues will keep you alive, music eases pain, I know, all the best for you !!!!! 🙂
George
June 11, 2016 at 9:39 am
Hi Eric. I’ve always loved your music. What’s the chance of seeing you in South Africa in a super group thing with someone like Steve Winwood. Good vibes to you with the health.
Charley wells
June 11, 2016 at 9:50 am
Your an inspiration to me Eric….ppreesh8 it my friend
Gerard Julsing
June 11, 2016 at 10:15 am
Eric gave us so much joy and pleasure ,and he still does ! This afternoon i,m going to town to buy his new CD .
Eric you,re the best .(From one blueser to another )
John Cuckow
June 11, 2016 at 10:26 am
Eric – My wife has PN and is in an advanced stage. If you ever need to talk give us a call! She will give you a laugh if nothing else. Regards.
Dave Rayner
June 11, 2016 at 10:33 am
All the best.. you have been a great influence to millions of guitarists.. thank you.
Yogi
June 11, 2016 at 10:39 am
Eric, many people are experiencing these symptoms. Doctors will diagnose the problem but are helpless to do anything about it. I am a musician as well, not anywhere near your level and you have been a huge influence since a very young age, I’m 58 yrs old now and only reasontly began to feel the same way. It is something in the air! A nerve agent in the chemtrails initially designed to keep the public calm and sedated. As termoil has risen with terrorism and other violent world event, the new world order has increased the concentration and dosage besides additional new GMO triggering agent being sprayed around the world, mainly over mass populated cities. The U.S. , UK and Europe are among the largest victims. Arm yourself with a hepa filter air purifier and filter your own drinking water. Detox your body, stay away from doctors prescribing pain meds, load up on vitamins, E,B-12, B complex, calcium among others. Figure out what your body needs or craves, it’s part of our survival instict in our DNA. We’ve become lazy trusting the medical and pharmaceutical industry keep us healthy when in fact now they are taking advantage. If any doubt ask yourself why are many young folks suffering from the same pain issues when join pain comes at a later age! Why are opiates prescribe indiscriminately? Mainly fresh vegetables are now poisoned with these chemicals since they absorb what is being sprayed in these chemtrails. Basic common sense friend! Only you can turn this around, learn how to detox and supplement you body because nutrients in today’s food is almost none existent. Hope this helps and if it makes sense spread the awareness. I’m not ready to throw in the towel if I can do something on my own about avoiding these poisons, I won’t let them destroy me or anyone I love! You’re included…❤️ Keep the faith and think positive, it strengthens the emunne system. I will keep an eye out for any news regarding your condition, too many good artist have suffered lately at the hands of what I call “The Creature”
Matt R
June 11, 2016 at 11:00 am
You are a crackpot, go away silly delusional numpty.
He has a diagnosed medical condition, he doesn’t need paranoid hippy freaks telling him to ignore doctors advice.
Sue murphy
June 11, 2016 at 11:20 am
Maybe delusional, however, vitamin supplementation will improve symptoms of peripheral neuropathy faster and better than prescription meds and I know this because after 5 years of no success with drugs and progression of pain, I started the vitamins and symptoms improved within a month. The AMA and big pharma won’t tell you that! Because it conflicts with their interests. It isn’t rocket science.
Paul Herring
June 11, 2016 at 12:57 pm
You’re out of order with your remarks here. Yogi was expressing a opinion and is entitled to it. You’ve done the same and he hasn’t (to my knowledge) replied to it. Additionally, he’s probably right. Millions, if not billions, are on permanent medications of one kind or another and they’re not improving. Finally, Eric is smart enough to separate the worthwhile comments from those otherwise so he doesn’t need you to go to bat for him.
paul
June 11, 2016 at 9:54 pm
You all sound like fools. Do you think he or his team are reading this? Making blanket statements about “Take this” or “They caused that” are silly. Yes, we need vitamins but to give advice without knowing the PATIENT, not celebrity, is dumb. You don’t know what ills you may cause with your “good” advice. Just thank the guy, wish him well, and stop being internet Dr.
RW
June 13, 2016 at 10:54 pm
They’ll blame it on “heavy metals” in the water or “candida” and “parasites” or even gluten because, you know, suddenly everybody is allergic to gluten…
Jan Berk
June 12, 2016 at 2:09 pm
Ummm – if chemtrails were calming and sedating people – maybe Christina Grimmie and the 20 people in the Orlando night club would not have been shot and killed! Those two gunmen were certainly not sedated!!
DUPUY
June 11, 2016 at 10:55 am
Courage Eric les fans vous apportent du positif et une joie qui nous accompagne à l’écoute du meilleur chanteur guitariste de notre temps amicalement de votre fan de Toulouse
David J Mathews
June 11, 2016 at 10:59 am
Wow this guy sounds so humble,cool and down to earth its amazing.Hopefully perhaps he could record a tune now and then.Feel better Eric!
Chris Williams
June 11, 2016 at 11:02 am
Eric, I have the same ailment and have for a few years. There’s only a few days difference in our age, too. I’ve been a fan of yours forever, and I pray the best for you. There are a lot of us who were lucky to have made it thru the 70’s that are in our 70’s now.
Jackie
June 11, 2016 at 11:39 am
Wishing Eric well- I suffer from the same condition, and do as he doses, enjoy each day.
Bob Carl
June 11, 2016 at 12:07 pm
Prayers to Jesus are the only help you will need. Put yourself in the hands of the “great physician” and you will be well. Continue your doctor’s treatments, but pray each day and you will be saved. Ask for God’s forgiveness and you will be blessed with eternal life.
Veronika
June 11, 2016 at 12:14 pm
God bless you and your family
Hopful you can play how long it works.
Norbert Gross
June 11, 2016 at 1:03 pm
Gute Besserung…
patrick smith
June 11, 2016 at 1:10 pm
Enjoy life, you don’t have to prove anything. You’ve served the world since 1964 with great music that will live on forever and ever. First night at CREAM RAH in 2005 was on of my best moments in life.
renard
June 11, 2016 at 1:11 pm
Enjoy each day as long as possible we are all with you , cheers
Paul Missavage
June 11, 2016 at 1:26 pm
Eric, Always have and always will love your music. You are in my top 5 all time greatest guitarist! Keep rocking! Live long and prosper Eric!
Fred Pittman
June 11, 2016 at 1:36 pm
Eric.first off thanks for all the music. That has healed me by listening. Please look into using a chigong/accupressure point person. It’s works! stay with it. God’s blessings on you.
Rayeanne
June 11, 2016 at 1:37 pm
I can relate to you when you said how did we survive the 70’s…..our time is not up suffer we will with physical pain brought by our own doings ,but strength and determination will carry us on til the good Lord brings us home..
Keep the faith and believe.
Whit Wall
June 11, 2016 at 1:50 pm
So sorry to hear of this. You and your music with its distinctive Clapton sound have been such an inspiration to so many of us in so many ways. Looking forward to hearing your new “album”! Thank you. WW
Gordon Campbell
June 11, 2016 at 2:10 pm
Just count your blessings that you have more time given to you on this planet…Your music has inspired many.. I just covered most of the Layla album in my studio this am..thanks for the great music!!
Andy Solomon
June 11, 2016 at 2:25 pm
Hi Eric,
Very sorry to hear about your health issue. I am a licensed massage therapist with the State of California for many years specializing in acupressure. I have some good references, some you may know. I also studied drums with Ginger Baker in Malibu in 1990 for 2 months. I have been successful in helping people in the past with different types of pain issues. I don’t know if I could help you but I would like to have the opportunity to try. When you’re in L. A. , if you contact me I can give you my references. Thanks.
And thanks for all of the great music over the years! One of my favorites is your album “August”.
With much love and respect,
Andy S.
Lea
June 11, 2016 at 2:36 pm
Dear Eric,
I cannot imagine a world without you. When I was thirteen (1970’s) Derek and the Dominos (Layla, Bell Bottom Blues) was my saving grace. It seems I was always on restriction for something I had done or didn’t do. I was stuck in my bedroom listening to my am/fm clock radio when I caught the Clapton bug. From then on I have collected so much memorabilia You will be in my prayers. Get Well!
Best Wishes,
Lea
Ahmad Murad
June 11, 2016 at 2:58 pm
I’m a healer that have been treating muscular and nervous disorders with success. If you happen to come to this side of the world I’ll be glad to treat you… my favorite guitarist of all times
Colin Gardiner
June 11, 2016 at 3:58 pm
Hello Eric.
I am so sorry to hear about your health problems and I sincerely wish you best wishes for continued good health for years to come.
I have been a fan of your music for many years and would like to thank you for all your music and the many hours of enjoyment I have enjoyed listening to you play and sing.
All the best for the future
Debbie Jones
June 11, 2016 at 4:10 pm
Best wishes for as less pain as possible! I just read your book about 2 months ago and after reading it, it IS a wonder you are still with us. I’m thankful you are! Your music is some of the greatest I’ve ever heard and I was blessed to see you in Raleigh, NC back in 1985. Prayers for you to keep on doing what you love…playing those guitars! Much love!!!!
Suzanne
June 11, 2016 at 4:11 pm
Get evaluated for chronic Lyme disease. Get a referral to an expert from this organization: ilads.org Learn more here: lymedisease.org
Jersson
June 11, 2016 at 4:58 pm
Infiltraciones de plaquetas y células madre!
jimmy Hawkins
June 11, 2016 at 5:05 pm
Eric.I have the same condition I have curbed it with great food and Ganja oil and non thc.can a vino lol extract.I use to play with Marcy Levy I gave her her first gig in Detroit when she was 18.I left the music business because of my Heroin and other abuses .I moved to Jamaica and became very close with Toots Hilbert.I know very good herbs men that cure with tonics.If you would like some help would be glad to introduce you to some Brothers that can work wonders.You have the spirit to live and you have inspired so many people .Cream helped me get through Vietnam without going insane Thanks so much for all you do.Jimmy Hawkins.
John V.
June 11, 2016 at 5:10 pm
I have peripheral neuropathy also. This morning happen to be the worse I’ve had in a long time. I guess it is a very small comfort that the guitarist I admire (as a guitar player) myself is going through the same thing I am. In my case, it is more in my feet but it is getting worse by the week. It may be related to the drug and alcohol use Eric mentioned but that is not necessarily the case. They don’t really know what causes it. More likely the immune system attacks the nerves for some odd reason. And with a brother in law who died of ALS about 10 years ago (Lou Gehrig Disease) and another brother in law who has Parkinson’s Disease (same as Mohammad Ali) I can say that in my book Neurologists are the most over rate know nothings in the medical field. If I was one I would jump off a bridge cause they can’t do jack shit for you if you get anything neurological. They have never cured a neurological disease out there including Muscular Dystrophies of every kind. In any event this is bad news to hear about Eric. It will only get worse for him and it essentially means our chances of ever seeing him play again live is next to zero.
M.E
June 13, 2016 at 7:04 pm
Wow you have a really positive attitude that is a positively negative attitude I have been dealing with neuropathy for sometime about 10 years or more and I’m still alive and I still play guitar of course I am nowhere near the level of genius that Eric is ,but if you look at not just quantity but the quality of his musiche has put forth it is obvious he is not the type of person to just give up. Likely , like most of us he will endure to the best of his ability. And write a song about what it takes to endure the pain.
Ali Brown
June 11, 2016 at 5:25 pm
You’ve had too much pain in your life, Eric. I wish you happiness and better health. I have a theory that eating lots of fish, especially oily fish, would help with your peripheral neuropathy – worth a try, hun. Love your music and thanks for recommending listening to Albert Lee – Wow!!! Big hug. Love Ali x
Ali Brown
June 11, 2016 at 8:48 pm
Another thought, but I’m sure your Doc must have investigated this, linking the back pain and electric shocks down your legs – sciatica?
Claire
June 11, 2016 at 5:35 pm
Hi Eric, First saw you by accident at a club called The Place with Delaney and Bonnie in 1970 in FL. I was too young to be in there but my school project was working for a promoter and we showed up to collect the gear afterwards so I got to watch you for a short time from about 2 feet away. Bonnie was amazing too and I recall being surprised a woman could be such a ball of energy on stage. About 5 years later someone gave me a great ticket to see you play at the Hammersmith Odeon in London. That concert was with Yvonne Elliman. You have inspired almost every person I grew up with or met with your guitar playing. I’m glad to read you are resting as it is very healing. Very best wishes to you!
lee
June 11, 2016 at 5:36 pm
Eric your a legend and we don’t want to loose you, hoping each day gets better for you.
Ken
June 11, 2016 at 5:50 pm
Maybe you can try gabapentin or nuerontin ..start with 100 mgs …the medicine interupts pain signals and is a remendy for opiates abuse …God Bless you Eric ..and Keep on Playin bills where you share the stage with others… so you dont have the Headlining work load …and there’s certainly nothing wrong with playing in the comfort of your home ..like the rest of us Guitar players to keep sharp 🙂
byron
June 11, 2016 at 5:57 pm
Even if it comes to that you can’t play live you must keep playing with friends or even if your home own your own .don’t stop because playing will help you . I have nerve damage .killed the nerve its dead .drop foot and I get the electric shocks going through my body . I play at home most of the time and play the odd gig . but please keep playing or your hands will get stiffer . I know what pain you must be in . I take lots of medication . I also had a drug and alcohol problems. I went to Broad way lodge years ago . where I heard your name mention . . ..I don’t drink or take street drugs anymore . I did try smoking blow for pain but I couldn’t do it anyore brought. Back some old thoughts and feeling but there is a cannabis spray you may be able to get from. some GPS . they wouldn’t give it to me but I’m no Ecric Clapton . hope you we be OK and don’t stay on your own having friends around help .you can always tell them to. Go . Ecric you have had a amazing life .keep playing . . I been in pain 12 years and I play the guitar but I’m Byron Baljak . I wish you the best . tell the pain to go away . Byron Baljak .
Robert Foster
June 11, 2016 at 6:13 pm
Dear Eric, I feel bad for anyone who contacts PN. I started to get the “needles & pins” 26 years ago, leading to the loss of my right leg, below the knee, 11 years ago. I have, like you, a wonderful wife who helps every day. I have used lyrica, vicadin and trazadone recently and they seem to work for me, but other things may work better. Just get a number of options on try them for 3 months at a time. You may be a tough in many any situations of your life, it’s harder to do with a doc. On the other end, you will find a strength to deal with it? Good thoughts are certainly been sent by your fans a other entertainers, me included. I have enjoyed you have shared with the world. Good luck for the future and make we continue to love you as we already do! Peace, Robert Foster
Brad Breath
June 11, 2016 at 6:44 pm
I was inspired to play guitar when I first heard Eric with John Mayall and Cream. He’s still an inspiration.
Cathy
June 11, 2016 at 6:45 pm
After all you’ve been through, to take guitar-playing away from you too is downright cruel. You’re a born survivor, and it’ll be so sad if you don’t survive this too. Every music-lover will be wishing you well.
Skye Temple
June 11, 2016 at 6:46 pm
Please try acupuncture and message. They work well. No drugs, pain relief.
Marly Wexler
June 11, 2016 at 7:22 pm
Dear Eric
You are clearly loved and appreciated by many and have been given lots of suggestions here to help with your pain and suffering.. Here is one more.. there is a woman named Dr Terry Wahls.. she is an MD who was diagnosed with MS and went the regular route with meds etc. until she realized she was only getting worse.. she did research and used herself as the lab.. long story short.. she has a book, videos, including a TED talk, and lots of info on how to change neurological conditions with diet and supplements. She went from being in a reclining wheel chair, to riding her bike to work.. it’s possible to make changes even with neuropathy.. so please, do consider checking her information out .. much love and appreciation to you
Victor Jäger
June 11, 2016 at 7:26 pm
I admire so much and feel really sorry for your pain.
God bless you.
Paul
June 11, 2016 at 8:03 pm
Please come to Vancouver BC. I`ve never seen you live and I`m getting older too. At 63, I am still inspired when I see your videos. My all time wish is to have a chance to jam with you.
Connie
June 11, 2016 at 8:33 pm
My 82 yr old mother has neropathy. She takes Tai Chi to keep it in check. She was part of a study at LSU on the benefits of Tai Chi. She drives other friends around that can’t drive any more. Thank you for your contributions to the music industry and substance addiction! Cross Roads fest in 2005 is still one of my all time favorite music events! The best to you.
Carson Hilburn
June 11, 2016 at 8:58 pm
Eric, I am already praying for Ginger. I will keep you too in my prayers. I am familiar with neuropathy. I pastor and I had a former church member who experienced those same symptoms that you described. I am only 60, but I agree with you about getting older. It is not for sissies.
Carson Hilburn
Alan R Duke
June 11, 2016 at 9:02 pm
Eric,
It has been an amazing career and you have brought so much joy to the world with your gift, We all appreciate your dedication to your craft and wish you comfort and satisfaction with everything you have accomplished. Well done. You are an inspiration to us all.
Alan Duke
Chris
June 11, 2016 at 9:05 pm
I have loved your music ever since I saw CREAM in 1968. Yours is a story of redemption and of paying forward and giving back. I am so sorry to hear about this. As someone who also suffers from chronic pain, I can relate. As a huge fan who has followed your career and watched you play and listened to your music hundreds and hundreds of times, I know this must be very frustrating. I am so very grateful to you for instilling (in me) a true love and appreciation for the blues. I was always into rock and roll, but not so much into the blues until I heard you play it. That made me want to hear more. My music collection has grown immensely. There are so many wonderful blues players out there, past and present. You certainly have done your part to keep the blues alive. I am very encouraged to see the younger blues guitarists who are following your lead. I have heard a couple of tracks from your new album…VERY nice! I know you will continue your good work for as long as you can and I thank you.
Jean-Pierre Lauzon
June 11, 2016 at 10:11 pm
Dear Eric,
I really enjoy the music you composed…sending you positive thoughts.. God Bless
Tom Stephens
June 11, 2016 at 10:37 pm
As a comrade in recovery for years, I know that sense of still wanting to laugh every day just because it seems so ridiculous to wake up sober and ready to go. Two things that had not happened most of my life. Thank you for the positive view of you just keep pushing on and are grateful for whatever you can give. Because you have given me and soooo many others help in getting through the day in music and in spirit. God bless you, your friends and family.
Chaz
June 11, 2016 at 10:50 pm
As someone who has been dealing with peripheral neuropathy, among other issues, for the last 21 years, I can tell you it isnt fun. My problems began when I failed to bring enough money to an armed robbery. I was shot 6 times, and have a bullet that sits just below the base of my spine. With your history of substance abuse, you have a tough road ahead of you. Even if it isnt extreme yet, eventually the pain will get to the point where analgesics or tylenol doesnt do enough for you. I ran the gamut of three different pain management practices and their collective solutions were to take more and more opioids, until you no longer sleep and are so constipated, you only poop once a week. I gave up on pain management about 6 months ago. My regular doctor is prescribing a limited amount of vicodin, and I rotate between tylenol, ibuprophen, and naproxen sodium. I tried physical therapy, yoga, and nerve blocks. While none of it worked for me, I have heard of varying amounts of success from others.
With the exception of greatest hits and other compilations, I have purchased every one of your studio (and live) albums, cassettes, and CDs over the years. I have followed your career since the late 70’s. You are truly the last living “great” guitar player, and I am bummed I havent had the chance to see you live. As I do not get out much any longer, I fear that opportunity has now passed. I make do with the DvDs of your live performances: smaller crowds in my living room, and the beers dont cost $8.
I wish you all the best and hope you find something that grants you enough relief to keep on playing. Most importantly, you’re going to need to rest before performing. For me, the pain gets gradually worse throughout the day, so if I have something to do at night, I make sure Im horizontal for at least three hours beforehand.
Donna DeanI
June 15, 2016 at 7:48 am
I have been sitting here reading comments to the point where my vision has gotten so blurry I have to close one eye in order to see the words. It was never my intention originally to add my two cents to these seemingly endless bits of advice but at the risk of adding to the negativity I just have to vent. The only thing that gives me comfort is knowing that EC will never see this and the fact that I am the only person interested in what I have to say.I just have to ask,”Are we all just a bunch of morans?”I include myself in that,after all I just admitted to talking to myself. But with the exception of those who just seemed to want to show their appreciation for all the great music EC blessed us with over the years by sending out their prayers, well wishes and love, a good amount of the comments seemed to be self indulgent, thoughtless and in some cases down right cruel.I have to think that your statements were brought on by stupidity, otherwise I have to accept that a great many of you are indeed cruel.Who in their right mind would tell someone recently diagnosed with anything, that thier future will only get worse? I truley am sorry for those of you who suffer chronic pain be it physical and I suspect in many cases , emotional.However just because that is what you have had to endure it in no means guarantees that everyone will be faced with the same conclusion..Everyone is different and although you may have some simerlarities it is those differences that make it impossible for anyone to predict the future for anyone else. I have rambled on enough and two cents is probably quite extravagant for what I had to say but it was worth the price to get that off my chest.If anyone does read this it is my hope that before you share your thoughts and experiences that you will consider wether or not what you have to say is helpful or harmful.And if by some twist of fate that you do read this EC, I’m sending your way all the positive vibes that I can muster.Keep on keeping on ! 🙂
Sharon Mu
June 11, 2016 at 11:15 pm
God give you strength and power to play guitar, the music you love!!
David Bichan
June 12, 2016 at 12:21 am
Eric: I feel like I have known you for 50 years, ever since Cream at Massey Hall (Toronto). This afternoon, the tears running down my cheeks, I did the only thing that would partially console me: I listened, on good earphones, to Forever Man: the Live disk: White Room, Sunshine of your Love, Walkin’ Blues, and Cocaine. I didn’t stop crying, but it dulled the pain. David Bichan, Toronto, Canada
ROBERT LEBOURGEOIS
June 12, 2016 at 2:18 am
ERIC IM ASTAGE 4 CANCER SURVIVOR AND A 40 YEAR WORKING GUITARIST. LAST DAY JOB 22 YEARS AGO. ONLY SOLACE I FIND.IS WHEN IM PLAYING BLOCKS IT ALL . MINE WAS STAGE4 THROAT CANCER. HAD TO ON NARCOTICS. OR JUST CURL UP AND DIE. METHADONE WORKS FOR ME NO HIGH, AT ALL OTHERS . NO WAY! STILL PLAY REGULARLY 61 NOW! YOU HAVE BEST DOC’S TAKE THEIR ADVICE. YOU GAVE ME ALOT OF DIRECTION. GRATEFUL FOR IT. I CHEATED DEATH. YOU CAN TOO!
Bob Lardin
June 12, 2016 at 3:23 am
In your country there is a holistic medicine that can help, one is Quantum Touch on your back the other is Reiki. They would help you with no side effects I have used it no cancer patients. I would say that If you are ever in my area, Pittsburgh, I would give you a treatment just for your aide. Take care and never give up. I love your new CD it’s one of the best.
Bob Gaudio
June 12, 2016 at 5:08 am
Dear Mr. Clapton, I will be praying for you. Jesus Christ loves you and so do I!
Shaka Brah
June 12, 2016 at 4:33 pm
Eric’s slow hand has riffed it’s rythms through our souls for our lifetimes & will play on forever more… Raging the aging is upon so many of us… Learning, adjusting, being @ peace with that acceptance is the path we’re on. Not because we chose that road, no, we’re here because it’s a journey that is who we are… Sorry to hear of your diminished health issue. Blessed to hear how you’re veiwing it. Let the music of your soul carry you through what was, is & will come. The legend of your songs are timeless reminders of our time on Earth & to kingdom come. May every moment be mindful. Take care of yourself, Eric. Love you man.
nancee
June 12, 2016 at 6:40 pm
Eric – my heart is sad- I am so sorry to hear of this- just finished watching your “rockumentary” on PBS and of course loved hearing the new song “I still do” – what a great multidimensional title!! anyways as a long adoring fan I hope you get to enjoy some of these good wishes being sent to you, and of course the humorous tangents and solutions for you that are so entertaining to read!! How boring if everyone were alike! Look at it his way at least you get to laugh, enjoy your family, and when you can, play…..best to you, the all-time greatest guitar GOD – think about it, how could God want to hurry to take you there with Him? there’s only room for One in the crowd 🙂 Hugs
mark williams
June 12, 2016 at 6:52 pm
Hey Eric, hang in there ole buddy, I get that (lightning )up and down my right leg x too! It Ness’s up my whole routine x I sit in me living room and play a bit in the mornings cz and that’s it for the day, then it oxi’s VB or methadone, a lil brandy and that’s about all I can manage!
Although, I restore older guitars now n again x c only on me good days!
Good fortune my friend x hang in there, help is on the way!!!
Lori
June 12, 2016 at 7:21 pm
Has Eric had a Western Blot antibody test? Lyme symptoms
J. R. M . Simwinga
June 12, 2016 at 7:23 pm
Your music has left an indelible mark in my life. I shall pray for you.
Laura
June 12, 2016 at 7:52 pm
Use of Hylands leg cramp homeopathic remedy helps my neuropathy. My grandson’s taught me to embrace the pain and ride it like a wave. I too am in recovery and Hylands is the only thing out there that brings relief and doesn’t make me feel stupid like Western medicine. Good luck
Peter Fsletto
June 13, 2016 at 12:00 am
I can help
I did something very similar for Glen Hamilton
Call his friends (you know them all) or pm me…I’m easy to find
Roland
June 13, 2016 at 4:02 am
Eric, I work with patients with diabetes with diabetic neuropathy, as well as other firms of peripheral neuropathy on a regular basis. I have only found one medication/nutritional product that has worked consistently. This is not medical advice as you are not my patient, but speak with your neurologist our primary care doctor about MetaNx. I have no financial interest, but it has helped many of my patients. Thank you for your years of musical genius. I have been a fan since the days of Cream and Disraeli Gears. Best to you and a wish that you will play without pain again. Dr. T.
Lorie Poulson
June 14, 2016 at 10:25 am
Have you tried Cannabis oil? If not, get in touch with Rick Simpson over at Phoenix Tears.
https://www.facebook.com/Rick-Simpson-Phoenix-Tears-171647872940185/?fref=ts
Lynn Fontaine
June 18, 2016 at 6:38 pm
I have been a fan of yours since the early 70’s. I grew up with your music and have followed your life. You truly have given pleasure to so many with your talents. Go ahead, take some time off and play when and how much you can. Just know that you are appreciated by millions!! I am 61 & have also had problems with neuropathy and am in recovery myself. I also have a granddaughter named Layla Lynn! Thank you for joy you have added to my life. God Bless You!
Sharon Hall
June 23, 2016 at 1:54 am
So sorry to hear you have neuropathy, Mr. Clapton. My husband has had it for years in his feet. The pain he describes is unimaginable. I hope you’re able to get some relief. God bless you.
Max
June 23, 2016 at 5:52 pm
Praying for you my friend love your acoustic version of Layla
Joyce Shales
June 24, 2016 at 9:06 pm
Dear Eric, I have enjoyed your music for many years. I am hoping you will find some relief for your pain. I have a very similar problem and I would have to say that Lyrica helped relieve my symptoms to best. I wish you the best. Joyce
Gordon Richards
June 29, 2016 at 6:50 pm
God didn’t save you from drowning so He could beat you up on the beach. It’s all good. March 30th, 1989…NYC. We’ve traveled some of the same roads together.
Björg Elín Finnsdóttir
July 30, 2016 at 12:07 pm
Dear Eric Clapton. Wishing you all the best……! My best regards from Iceland – hope you will visit my country again soon. Your fan, Björg Elín
Maria Zubak
November 30, 2016 at 1:56 am
Eric I grew up in the 70s and I love your music Next to my faith in God your book and your music helped me the most after losing my mom She had diabetic neuropathy St Cecelia and Gregory are the patron saints of musicians St Dymphna nerve disorder St Maximilian Kolbe patron saint of family men and substance abuse Get well Ric luv ys