Patti Scialfa, the talented musician who is not only Bruce Springsteen’s wife but also a key member of the E Street Band, bravely opened up about her battle with cancer.
In a recent documentary, Rock Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, Patti revealed something deeply personal: she had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2018.
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bones, and it made touring with the E Street Band nearly impossible for Patti. As she explained, the illness attacks her immune system, making it a constant challenge to be around large crowds or on the road.
The decision to step back from touring was a tough one for her, but she made it out of love and necessity for her health.
“This affects my immune system, so I have to be careful what I choose to do and where I choose to go,” Patti said, sharing her difficult reality. “Every once in a while, I come to a show or two and I can sing a few songs on stage, and that’s been a treat. That’s the new normal for me right now, and I’m OK with that.”
Although she couldn’t tour as much, Patti still found ways to contribute to the music world. In a previous interview with the Asbury Park Press, she shared that she had chosen to perform only a few shows on Bruce’s 2023 tour, which started in February.
She explained that this decision allowed her to spend more time with her new granddaughter, Lily, born in July 2022, and focus on finishing her solo album.
“I didn’t feel as needed in a way because there were a lot of musicians on stage,” Patti explained. “I did the first couple of shows, and as I saw how it was all rolling, I thought, ‘This is good. This is completely intact. There’s not much room for me to add anything special.’”
She added that another big reason she stepped back was to focus on her own music. “The main thing was I have a record that I couldn’t have finished when Bruce was home because he’s in the studio all the time. So I took that opportunity to do my record.”
Patti’s decision to step back wasn’t just about health or family—it was also about giving herself space to grow as an artist. And even though she wasn’t on every tour date, she made her presence felt on the ones she could attend.
Sadly, Patti wasn’t the only one in the Springsteen family facing health challenges. In September 2023, Bruce himself had to pause his 2023 tour dates while receiving treatment for peptic ulcer disease.
Then, in the summer of 2024, he was again forced to postpone some shows due to “vocal issues,” but thankfully it was only for three dates.
Despite the health setbacks, both Patti and Bruce continue to show incredible strength and resilience. Fans around the world are sending their love and support, especially for Patti as she continues her fight against multiple myeloma.
“My prayers are with Patti Scialfa as she continues to battle multiple myeloma,” one fan shared.
It’s a reminder of how important health is, even for the biggest stars. Through it all, Patti remains a true inspiration, and her story proves that even in tough times, you can find new paths to follow.
What do you think of this story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
