After Parkinson's diagnosis, Neil Diamond thanks his fans, says support 'makes me smile'
WATCH Neil Diamond says he's been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease
Neil Diamond and his wife thanked his fans Tuesday, a day after the legendary singer revealed he was retiring from touring after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
The diagnosis forced Diamond to cancel a previously announced tour in Australia and New Zealand in March.
Steve Granitz/WireImage via Getty Images, FILEHis wife, Katie, said Diamond's fans from Down Under have responded to the sad news in a positive and charitable way.
"Wow, I've received a bunch of messages from people in Aus & NZ who are donating their ticket refunds to good causes: Parkinson's research, animal rescue groups, fire victim funds, etc.," she tweeted, referring to Australia and New Zealand. "My heart is so full of joy to see this silver lining. Faith in humanity = restored. Thank you!"
Wow, I’ve received a bunch of messages from people in Aus & NZ who are donating their ticket refunds to good causes: Parkinson’s research, animal rescue groups, fire victim funds, etc. My heart is so full of joy to see this silver lining. Faith in humanity = restored. Thank you!
— Katie Diamond (@KatieMcDiamond) January 23, 2018
Neil Diamond retweeted his wife's post.
"This makes me smile," he tweeted. "Thank you. Thank you to everyone for your outpouring of love and support. It makes a difference."
This makes me smile. Thank you. Thank you to everyone for your outpouring of love and support. It makes a difference. https://t.co/TLZAa69q1B
— Neil Diamond (@NeilDiamond) January 23, 2018
In his announcement Monday, Diamond wrote: "It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years. My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows."
Adrian Edwards/Getty ImagesHe added, "I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come. My thanks go out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world."
Neil Diamond to retire from touring, citing Parkinson's disease After Neil Diamond's Parkinson's diagnosis, here's what you need to know about the disease
Diamond will turn 77 Wednesday, and on Sunday, he'll be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 60th Annual Grammy ceremony.
Scott Dudelson/Getty Images, FILE- Star
