Richie Faulkner’s Ongoing Battle with Heart Complications

Judas Priest guitarist Richie Faulkner continues to navigate the challenging aftermath of an aortic aneurysm and several open-heart surgeries. In a recent interview, he revealed that he has suffered permanent brain damage as a result of his medical complications.

The Incident: A Life-Altering Moment

In 2021, Faulkner’s life took a dramatic turn when he collapsed onstage during Judas Priest’s performance at the Louder Than Life Festival in Kentucky. The cause was identified as a ruptured aorta, necessitating emergency surgical intervention. Since then, Faulkner has undergone multiple surgeries, grappling with the long-term effects of this health crisis.

Health Struggles: The Impact of TIAs

In a candid conversation with Premier Guitar, Faulkner recounted how he experienced a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), commonly known as a “mini-stroke,” about a month after his initial surgery. He admitted that he couldn’t recall the specifics of that day, but medical professionals warned him that TIAs can precede full-blown strokes. Unfortunately, he faced another TIA a year later, which led to further heart surgery. By this time, Faulkner had received medical clearance to return to touring with Judas Priest, but he sensed something was amiss.

Physical Changes and Concerns

Faulkner began to notice unusual sensations in his right hand. He initially attributed these feelings to his rings, which he believed might be constricting his movement. However, after removing them and still experiencing discomfort, he realized the issue was more serious.

“There was something in my right hand — I thought it was my rings… But there was something different about my right hand,” he explained. “I could get through it, but I felt that something was wrong.” His fears were confirmed when medical examinations revealed that he had not merely experienced TIAs; he had suffered a stroke, resulting in irreversible brain damage.

Struggles with Performance Anxiety

Alongside his physical challenges, Faulkner has expressed feelings of guilt and anxiety about his performance. He worries that his condition may disappoint Judas Priest fans and jeopardize the trust that he has built with his supporters and music partners.

Feeling Like a Fraud

“I feel like a fraud because people don’t know — maybe. But one day they’re gonna find out,” he lamented. “In a band like Priest, it’s gotta be world-class stuff, and I don’t feel world-class.” Despite these feelings, Faulkner continues to push himself, performing with the band while managing his health issues.

Finding Strength in Adversity

Despite the setbacks, Faulkner has chosen to view his situation as an opportunity for growth and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of mental health and encourages others who may be struggling with similar issues to know they are not alone.

“I know there’s a lot of people out there that play, they sing, whatever they do, and they feel like they’re not good enough… All of us, probably more people than we are all aware of, struggle with something somewhere,” he said, offering a message of solidarity and understanding.

Conclusion

Richie Faulkner’s journey exemplifies the challenges faced by artists in the face of serious health issues. As he continues to navigate his recovery and the impact on his musical career, his openness about his struggles serves as a reminder of the importance of mental and physical health in the pursuit of artistic excellence.

FAQs

What happened to Richie Faulkner during the Louder Than Life Festival?

Richie Faulkner collapsed onstage due to a ruptured aorta, leading to emergency surgery.

What are TIAs, and how did they affect Faulkner?

Transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs) are often referred to as mini-strokes. Faulkner experienced TIAs, which later led to the realization that he had suffered a full stroke, resulting in brain damage.

How has Faulkner’s health impacted his performance with Judas Priest?

Faulkner has expressed concerns about his ability to perform at the same level as before his health issues, feeling guilty about potentially disappointing fans.

What message does Faulkner want to convey to others facing similar challenges?

Faulkner wants others to know they are not alone in their struggles and emphasizes the importance of mental health and support.