Billy Connolly Diagnosed With Parkinson’s And Prostate Cance
Billy Connolly was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and prostate cancer. The 70-year-old comedian and actor is currently receiving treatment for both.
Although Connolly underwent minor surgery for the cancer, representatives say it is in “the very early stages.” The surgery was reportedly “a total success.”
While being assessed for the cancer, doctors discovered that Connolly displayed symptoms of Parkinson’s. While the disease can be debilitating, the symptoms remain mild at this time.
As reported by BillyConnolly.com, an official statement says neither illness should interfere with Connolly’s current schedule or career. The Scottish-born actor is set to begin filming a new television series before the end of the year.
Next year, Billy Connolly is scheduled to appear in “an extensive theatrical tour of New Zealand.” He has no intention of letting anything slow him down.
Connolly is a talented and diverse performer. His voice can be heard in several animated films including Brave, The Ballad of Nessie, Open Season I and II, and Pocahontas.
He has appeared in numerous critically acclaimed films including Quartet, The Hobbit, The Boondock Saints I and II, and The Last Samurai.
In addition to his film, stage, and television career, Connolly is a great adventurer. He released several “World Tour” documentaries, chronicling his adventures while traveling throughout the world.
Connolly spent 2013 performing in Ireland.
As reported by The Independent, Connolly admits that he noticed the Parkinson’s symptoms early this year. He realized that he was suddenly having difficulty remembering his lines.
He says he was terrified, and thought he was “going out of [his] mind.”
Steve Ford, Chief Executive at Parkinson’s UK, says the disease is different for every patient. In some, the symptoms remain mild. However, for others the symptoms can disrupt their entire life.
Ford says that with medical and moral support, Billy Connolly may experience few disruptions from the disease.
[Image via Featureflash / Shutterstock.com]
