Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer John Paris Begins Rehabilitation After Two Months in Hospital
Written by WorldOneFm on October 9, 2026
Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris has begun rehabilitation after spending two months in a San Francisco hospital following a serious medical emergency.
The 58-year-old musician was hospitalized on August 6 after suffering a heart-related incident shortly before the band was scheduled to perform with Lionel Richie in San Francisco. Paris underwent two major surgeries and was placed in a medically induced coma twice during his treatment.
According to an October 8 update on his GoFundMe page, Paris has now left the hospital and started the next stage of his recovery. The update also revealed that he suffered a spinal cord injury.
“Reaching rehabilitation is a victory,” the statement said, adding that Paris still faces a long recovery as he works to regain as much independence as possible and eventually return home.
The health crisis has also created unexpected financial challenges for Paris and his wife, Kathy Merrick. The drummer did not have medical insurance when the emergency occurred, leaving the couple facing significant medical expenses.
They are exploring available assistance, including Medicare and workers’ compensation, although it remains unclear how much of the cost will be covered. The fundraising campaign aims to raise $110,000.
During his hospitalization, Paris experienced breathing difficulties and elevated blood pressure, which led doctors to place him in a medically induced coma for a second time. He eventually regained consciousness.
