Billy Joel Celebrates “Extra Special” Father’s Day Amid Brain Condition Diagnosis

Billy Joel’s family is by his side. On Father’s Day, the singer’s wife, Alexis Roderick, took to his Instagram to share a tribute to him.

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“This Father’s Day is extra special. We are always grateful and thankful but this year really reminded us how lucky we are to have you,” Roderick’s post read. “We are so blessed to have such a strong, determined man in our lives. You are a wonderful support for us and we only hope we can be the same for you. We love you and know you will be rocking out next year.”

Alongside her touching caption, Roderick shared several pics. In one shot, Joel smiles as he looks out into the distance. Other pictures feature the singer posing with Roderick and their daughters, Della, 9, and Remy, 7.

Joel is also dad to Alexa, 39. He shares his eldest daughter with his ex-wife, Christie Brinkley.

Billy Joel’s Recent Health Diagnosis

The celebratory post came less than a month after Joel shared devastating news with fans. The singer revealed that he’d been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a rare brain disorder brought on by an excess of cerebrospinal fluid collecting in the brain.

As a result of the diagnosis—and the ongoing issues with hearing, vision, and balance that it presents—Joel canceled all of his upcoming tour dates.

In the wake of Joel’s diagnosis, Roderick took to Instagram to express her thanks for the love and support for her husband received.

“We are so grateful for the wonderful care and swift diagnosis we received,” she wrote. “Bill is beloved by so many, and to us, he is a father and husband who is at the center of our world. We are hopeful for his recovery. We look forward to seeing you all in the future.”

Brinkley also spoke out about her ex’s health, writing in part on Instagram, “I’m sure I’m speaking for everyone in that room when I say please take good care of yourself. We all want you back in that white hot spotlight. You’re OUR piano man. And we’re always in the mood for your melodies And we all hope you’re feeling alright!”

Joel’s eldest daughter likewise took to Instagram in the wake of her dad’s health woes.

“My Dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known… and he’s entirely committed to making a full recovery with ongoing physical-therapy treatments as he continues to regain his strength,” she wrote in part. “The genuine care, empathy, and concern from everyone means so much to him… it means a lot to me, too.”

Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images