Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris gave his worried family a precious moment of hope when he briefly woke from a medically induced coma and showed flashes of his familiar personality — before doctors were forced to sedate him again.
Paris suffered what has been described as a “cardiac incident” on Aug. 6, shortly before the legendary funk group was scheduled to perform at San Francisco’s Chase Center.
Now, his family and the band are revealing new details about the frightening medical emergency and the emotional roller coaster that has followed.
“Today, we wanted to share a more personal update on John’s journey,” the family said in a Facebook statement Thursday.
They explained that Paris was placed in an induced coma after arriving at the hospital as doctors worked to stabilize him.
But after receiving treatment, Paris eventually opened his eyes and was able to spend some time with loved ones.
For a brief period, his family said, “everyone saw the John they know and love.”
The drummer was reportedly alert enough to interact and joke with those around him, giving his loved ones a desperately needed sign of encouragement.
Unfortunately, the breakthrough was short-lived.
“Not too long after that John’s blood pressure began to rise, and he had difficulty breathing,” the family said.
Doctors ultimately decided Paris needed to be sedated again so his body could stabilize.
“Today, John remains resting under sedation while his medical team carefully monitors him and determines the safest path forward,” the statement continued.
Despite the setback, his family stressed that they remain hopeful.
“John’s journey is far from over,” they said. “There is so much hope that surrounds him.”
Paris’ medical emergency unfolded just before Earth, Wind & Fire was scheduled to take the stage at the Chase Center.
According to TMZ, a fire engine and private ambulance responded to the arena before the concert.
The sudden emergency forced the band to postpone the performance shortly before showtime. Fans were told refunds would be available through their original point of purchase.
Back at the hospital, Paris’ loved ones say music has become an unexpected source of encouragement.
Even while sedated, the longtime drummer appears to show subtle reactions when songs are played near his bedside.
“Although this has been an emotional roller coaster, there have continued to be small moments that give those closest to him hope,” his family said.
“Even now, John appears to show slight responses when music is played. For a man whose life has been devoted to music, those moments have been incredibly meaningful to everyone at his bedside.”
The family said additional updates will be released when there is “meaningful news to report” as Paris continues receiving treatment.
