John Driskel Hopkins of the Zac Brown Band shares a diagnosis of ALS – NBC10 Philadelphia

John Driskel Hopkins, bassist of the band Zac Brownannounced that he was diagnosed with ALS. Hopkins shared this news in a video posted on the site country band‘s the official YouTube channel on May 20.

“Over the last few years, I’ve noticed some balance issues and some stiffness in my hands,” he shared. “After a careful analysis of some of the country’s leading neurologists, I was diagnosed with ALS.”

ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is sometimes referred to Lou Gehrig’s disease. It is a neurodegenerative disease that targets the nervous system, causing muscles to weaken and limiting physical function, according to the ALS Association. Exposure to the brain and spinal cord can lead to decreased motor function and loss of control over muscles, speech and movement. The average life expectancy is two to five years after diagnosis.

Although there is no cure for ALS, the 51-year-old Hopkins still hopes to be able to keep playing for your fans for a long time.

Zac Brown Band’s “Out in the Middle” tour

“Because my symptoms have progressed slowly from the beginning, we believe they will continue to progress slowly,” Hopkins continued. “God willing, I plan to play with these amazing people for many years to come.”

In a video ad, Hopkins and his bandmates also revealed that they have launched the Hop on a Cure Foundation to support ALS research and work on treatment.

“Technology and research related to ALS research is evolving, but we still don’t have a cure,” Zach Brown said in the clip. “Thank you so much for your prayers and support to help us heal ALS.”

After the release of their latest album “The Comeback”, the Zac Brown Band is now working on it 2022 Out in the Middle Tour, which launched in April. The 32-day international tour will end in Phoenix on November 19.

According to his family, Pete Freits, the instigator of the Ice Bucket Challenge in favor of ALS, has died.