Patti Scialfa, celebrated member of the E Street Band and wife of legendary musician Bruce Springsteen, recently opened up about her challenging journey with cancer over the past several years. Her courageous story was shared in the heartfelt documentary, ‘Rock Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band,’ which made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Since her diagnosis with multiple myeloma in 2018, Scialfa has faced significant changes in her life. Multiple myeloma, a complex cancer affecting the immune system, led her to make the tough choice of stepping back from touring with Springsteen and the E Street Band to prioritize her health.
“This affects my immune system, so I have to be careful what I choose to do and where I choose to go,” Scialfa shared candidly. “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.”
Despite these health challenges, Scialfa remains deeply dedicated to her family and music. Her decision to perform at selected shows during Springsteen’s tour was largely motivated by her desire to spend quality time with her granddaughter Lily Springsteen, who was born in July 2022. Additionally, she seized the opportunity to devote attention to her solo music project.
“I didn’t feel as needed in a way because there were a lot of musicians on stage,” Scialfa elaborated. “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.’”
The chance to work on her record was something she couldn’t fully pursue when Bruce was at home due to his extensive studio work. With a touch of resilience and creativity, Scialfa embraced this time to progress on her record.
Scialfa’s story is not one of solitude, as her husband Bruce Springsteen has also faced his own health battles. In September 2023, Springsteen had to postpone several tour dates while undergoing treatment for peptic ulcer disease. He later postponed more dates due to vocal issues, affecting only three shows during the summer of 2024.
The courage of both Scialfa and Springsteen is truly inspiring, as they navigate through their health obstacles while continuing to contribute to their musical endeavors. Patti Scialfa’s strength and positivity are not only evident in her music but are also a testament to her enduring spirit.
Let us keep Patti Scialfa in our thoughts as she bravely continues to face her health battles with dignity and grace.
