“I Don’t Want to Lose My Marbles”: Billy Joel on the Brain Condition He Almost Didn’t Treat

Gossip

By Chrissy Stockton

Updated 49 minutes ago, September 9, 2026

Billy Joel is opening up about a serious health scare — and the surgery that he says brought him back.

The 77-year-old was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition in which cerebrospinal fluid accumulates inside the skull and presses on the brain. He felt as though he were on a rocking boat and couldn’t stay steady on his feet. He discussed the diagnosis Wednesday, September 9, on SiriusXM’s The Billy Joel Channel.

The condition usually affects people over 65 and can be treatable or even reversible. His neurologist recommended a shunt, a flexible plastic tube implanted in the brain to relieve the pressure. He initially rejected the idea but reconsidered after learning it could help his memory.

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After the procedure, he said his memory and ability to function improved. “You know, I don’t want to lose my marbles,” he said.

For now, the singer says the fix has held — and he’s grateful to still be standing.

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