Marc Cohn Reveals Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis: ‘This Is Just Another Passage’

Marc Cohn has taken took Instagram to reveal his hope amid his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis.

“I feel like it’s time to tell you, my fans, what many of my colleagues, friends and family already know. About 5 years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease,” he wrote alongside a photo of himself on stage. “I waited this long to tell you about the diagnosis because I needed time to process the unsettling news myself. But the good news is this: I’m doing everything I can to stave off Parkinson’s progression, and with those efforts, I have been able to continue playing shows for you all. Some nights have been more difficult than others, but there were moments of healing and deep gratitude for my ability to stand at the microphone and continue to do the job I love so much.”

He continued, “These past few years have been a time of reflection and a reminder of the preciousness of every moment. Thank you for making my music part of your daily lives. I feel like I’ve been a guest at your weddings, your delivery rooms, your first dances, and all the passages we all go through. This is just another passage… another opportunity to learn another dance.”

Cohn concluded that, despite the unfortunate news, he plans “on continuing to do shows for as long as possible.” See his post here.

Per the Parkinson’s Foundation website, the disease is “a neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately the dopamine-producing (‘dopaminergic’) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra.” Symptoms include hand and body tremors, limb stiffness and slowness of movement.

Cohn is best known for his 1991 hit “Walking in Memphis,” from his debut self-titled album. The track hit No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and received two Grammy nominations — song of the year and best pop vocal performance, male. Cohn also won a Grammy that year for best new artist. The Recording Industry Association of America certified “Walking in Memphis” platinum in 1996.