May 10, 2017
Yoshiki, the leader of the Japanese heavy metal band X Japan, will undergo an emergency cervical artificial disc replacement surgery on May 16 in Los Angeles, because his neck has severely damaged by his intense drumming style. Yoshiki’s condition was diagnosed as cervical foraminal stenosis.
It is said that he has suffered terribly for a long time, just like a rugby player who has no choice but to retire. In January, he performed at Carnegie Hall in New York when he had no sensation in his left hand. Even though, he wanted to continue music activities. However, his symptoms are getting worse, and his doctors in Japan and U.S strongly recommended the surgery.
All scheduled activities in May are going to be cancelled, which makes many fans feel depressed and worried. However, fans in the world will never abandon him and be waiting for him to come back with everything OK.
By the way, I was surprised because he is now 51 years old. It is hard to believe it.
By Meg Konishi (Find Your Japan)