Drummer John Paris of the legendary band Earth, Wind & Fire is set to undergo two major surgeries following a cardiac incident earlier this month. Paris, 58, has been in a medically induced coma but recently awoke for a second time, with his condition showing stability, according to a statement shared on the "Standing for John Paris" Facebook page.
His medical team is preparing him for the next phase of his treatment, which requires him to remain in the Intensive Care Unit longer than initially anticipated. His wife, Kathy, and daughter, Kyla, are providing support, with Kathy expressing hope and urging continued prayers and well wishes for the family.
The incident occurred on August 13, just before the band was scheduled to perform with Lionel Richie in San Francisco. A cardiac emergency was reported at the venue, leading to one person being transported to a hospital in critical condition. This led to the cancellation of the concert, with a rescheduled date to be announced.
Paris joined Earth, Wind & Fire in 2001 and has performed on several of the band's studio albums, including "The Promise" (2003), "Illumination" (2005), "Now, Then & Forever" (2013), and "Holiday" (2014).
Earth, Wind & Fire rose to prominence in 1975 with their hit single "Shining Star" and have since achieved numerous successes, including seven Grammy Awards. Their 1978 hit "September" was added to the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry in 2018.
A GoFundMe fundraiser has been established to support Paris's recovery, which is nearing its $90,000 goal. The funds are intended to help his wife, Kathy, remain by his side during his extended hospital stay and recovery.