Carly Simon reveals Parkinson's diagnosis and facial cancer surgery

Carly Simon has shared a personal update, revealing she has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and has been learning to live with the condition over the past few years. The 83-year-old singer-songwriter also disclosed that she underwent surgery for a basal cell carcinoma on her face, which altered her appearance.

In a letter published by People, Simon explained that the Parkinson's diagnosis took time to comprehend and adapt to. She described the disease as unpredictable, with days of extreme fatigue contrasting with others that allow for more movement and productivity. The journey began with knee and hip arthritis, leading to three joint replacement surgeries. However, complications during recovery persisted, impacting her mobility and making simple actions like rising from a chair difficult.

"My family and I knew something else was going on. After extensive evaluation at the Mayo Clinic, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's," she stated. Simon is undergoing medication treatment for rigidity and other symptoms, noting that the disease can also bring anxiety, depression, and apathy. She admitted to experiencing days where she felt unmotivated to even get out of bed.

Adding to her health concerns, Simon battled facial skin cancer. Although the basal cell carcinoma was successfully removed, the surgery affected her looks. She humorously noted the irony, given she wrote the hit song "You're So Vain."

Despite these significant health challenges and the emotional toll, Simon has continued to work. She is set to release her new album, 'Comes in Waves,' next month, her first in 18 years. "Music has always known when to arrive," she reflected.