Singer Carly Simon diagnosed with Parkinson's, treated for skin cancer

Singer Carly Simon has publicly shared her diagnosis with Parkinson's disease, revealing the news in a statement provided to The Associated Press. The 83-year-old artist also disclosed that she was recently treated for basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer, on her face.

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So many people have written to me, kindly wondering about my relative silence, asking how I am and what I have been doing. The truth is, I've been learning how to live with Parkinson's disease.

Simon explained that her mobility had declined, prompting an extensive evaluation at the Mayo Clinic where she received the Parkinson's diagnosis. She described the disease as unpredictable, with some days leaving her too tired to move while others allow her more freedom. "Parkinson's is different for everyone, and it can be unpredictable," Simon stated. "Some days I'm so tired I can't get the day moving at all. On others, it gives me a little more room to move, think, work, and feel like myself."

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Parkinson's is different for everyone, and it can be unpredictable. Some days I'm so tired I can't get the day moving at all. On others, it gives me a little more room to move, think, work, and feel like myself.

She underwent surgery for the skin cancer, which affected her appearance and made her more self-conscious. Despite these health challenges, Simon has found a creative outlet in music. She announced that her first album of original songs since 2008, titled "Comes in Waves," is set for release on August 14. "Working on the music gave shape to days that did not always have much shape," she said. "It reminded me that illness can change your life without becoming the whole of your life."

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I began treatment, including taking medication to help with stiffness and other symptoms.