"From Stage to Paralysis: Jesse Malin's Unwavering Spirit and Road to Recovery"
During a concert at New York's Webster Hall, Jesse Malin, a seasoned performer, engaged in his usual stage antics, leaping off the stage and making his way through the packed crowd towards the back bar. This time, however, it would be different. Just weeks after the celebratory gig marking the 20th anniversary of his solo debut album, Malin experienced an incredibly rare spinal-cord infarction, essentially a stroke in his back, while having dinner in the East Village. The pain started in his lower back and gradually spread down to his legs, rendering him unable to walk. After collapsing in the restaurant, he was rushed to the hospital and has been paralyzed from the waist down ever since.
Malin describes the past six weeks as the most challenging period of his life. Although doctors are uncertain about his chances of recovery, he maintains an unwavering optimism and determination to regain control of his body. Known for his positive mental attitude, which he refers to as "P.M.A.," inspired by the Bad Brains' song "Attitude," Malin admits that maintaining that mindset has been difficult in the face of this unexpected medical emergency.
Following his stay at Mount Sinai Hospital and various spinal procedures, Malin was transferred to an NYU rehab facility. His days now consist of intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation, with the immediate goal of relearning how to move without the use of his legs. However, the financial burden of long-term care and outpatient rehab weighs heavily on Malin, as he, like many working musicians, lacks the necessary funds to support himself. To address this issue, a campaign has been launched by his manager and friends through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund to raise money for his care.
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Despite his gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career, Malin finds it difficult to ask for help. He has been a strong advocate for the rock & roll community, investing in neighborhood establishments and organizing numerous benefit events. Nevertheless, he recognizes the humbling reality of his current situation, where he lies unable to walk, and acknowledges the necessity of reaching out for assistance.
In addition to the financial challenges, Malin had to cancel a planned summer tour due to his stroke. While initially withholding specific details about his condition, he eventually decided to share the truth with his fans, emphasizing that his recovery will be a long and arduous process.
Ironically, amidst this personal hardship, Malin has achieved recognition for a song called "New York Comeback," which he co-wrote with Lucinda Williams, herself a stroke survivor. The song recently topped the charts in Americana radio, adding a touch of bittersweetness to Malin's current circumstances. Despite the difficulties he faces, he acknowledges the support he has received from friends, fans, and the world at large, even though he would have preferred to learn about it in a different context.