No Doubt guitarist Tom Dumont is sharing a health update with fans.
On Saturday (April 11), the 58-year-old musician posted a video on Instagram revealing that he has been diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s disease.
“A number of years ago I was experiencing a number of symptoms,” Dumont said. “I went to my doctor, I went to a neurologist, did a whole bunch of tests, and I was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s disease. It’s been a struggle, it’s a struggle every day.”
Dumont, who joined No Doubt in 1988, said in his message that he has spent recent months preparing for the ska-pop group’s upcoming residency at Las Vegas’ Sphere, which launches on May 6.
“The last couple months, getting ready for the No Doubt Sphere shows, it’s been very fun,” the guitarist said. “Looking through old footage and looking at old photographs and relearning old songs and rehearsing and creating all the video stuff for the Sphere. It’s kind of made me think about how grateful I am for the life I’ve gotten to lead, as a musician all these years. It’s thanks for our families and our friends and our listeners and you and everyone who’s come to our shows over the years.”
Despite his diagnosis, Dumont confirmed in the clip that he will still be taking part in No Doubt’s run at the MSG-owned 17,600-capacity venue. The group currently has dates scheduled through mid-June at the Sphere.
The guitarist also said he plans to share another video explaining his diagnosis and the symptoms he is experiencing in more detail.
“The good news is I can still play music, I can still play guitar,” Dumont said. “I’ve been doing really well. I’ve just been very inspired by other people who have come out to talk about their health issues on social media and that sort of thing. I think it helps erase some of the stigma and it raises awareness obviously, and awareness is really important for prevention and for research.”
Early onset Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement, cognition and mood, according to the Mayo Clinic. While there are a number of treatments and lifestyle changes that can help ease Parkinson’s symptoms, there is currently no cure for the disease, according to the American Parkinson Disease Association.
He ended the video by saying, “I’m really excited about the shows, can’t wait to see everybody.”
Dumont’s No Doubt bandmates also showed their support in the comments on the post. Drummer Adrian Young wrote, “My friend, bandmate, and hero……I love you brother,” while bassist Tony Kanal added, “Love you beyond words my friend. Can’t wait to get on stage with you again.”
See Dumont’s post on Instagram below.
