Beverly Glenn-Copeland reveals dementia diagnosis
The acclaimed musician says his upcoming tour dates will mark his final live performances
Musician Beverly Glenn-Copeland has revealed that he has been diagnosed with dementia, and has been managing it for some time now.
In an Instagram video featuring his wife Elizabeth Glenn-Copeland, the two explained that the illness has impacted his memory and spatial awareness. But Beverly added that "it has not impacted my ability to be fully in the moment with those I love."
While Elizabeth noted a number of upcoming projects, sprouting from a "massive creative renewal," including a book, an adaptation of a musical and plans to create a children's TV show, Beverly said that his upcoming tour will be his last. He has three concerts scheduled in the next two weeks: Sept. 26 in Montreal (which will be his last Canadian show), Brooklyn on Sept. 30 and Saugerties, N.Y. on Oct. 5.
"One of the things that's really painful about this illness is that it has taken Glenn away from me, from us, a little bit at a time," Elizabeth said in the video. "Sometimes for me, as his caretaker and as his wife, it feels like death by a thousand cuts and yet as these parts of him go, I see his essential light shining brighter than ever. So as is often in the case in life and sadness, there is also a really profound beauty."
"We want to challenge the mainstream image of this illness, which focuses on loss" Beverly continued. "We are actively asking the universe to show us, 'Where is the life here?'"
He concluded the video by saying, "We'll need support from community in the times ahead, and we'll share details soon. Until then, take good care of yourselves and your loved ones. We'll see you soon."
Watch the full video below.