The well-known country music performer and generational inspiration Willie Nelson recently opened up about a concerning health scare he had earlier in the year. Even at 89 years old, Willie shows his unshakable commitment to his profession by touring the United States with the Nelson Family band.
Anyone would find it terrifying to wake up in the middle of the night on their tour bus, like Willie did. His fast polymerase chain reaction test verified his worst suspicions: he had certainly caught COVID-19. Willie’s age and susceptibility to the infection increased the gravity of the situation.
Anne Nelson, Willie’s wife, described the steps they took to guarantee his recovery. “A nebulizer was with me on the bus. At that moment, I started everything I could, including Paxlovid. The monoclonal antibodies were with him. She disclosed that he was on steroids. In an effort to provide Willie the finest care possible, they converted their Spicewood, Texas, house into a temporary hospital and recruited a whole medical unit to keep an eye on his condition.
Anne recalled her moments of doubt as she thought back on those trying days, stating, “There were a couple of times when I wasn’t sure he was going to make it.” Though Willie’s journey to recovery was not an easy one, after six days he was back on the stage and ready to play. Two weeks later, he was back on the road, doing concerts in New Braunfels, Texas.
The story of Willie Nelson’s struggle with COVID-19 serves as a warning not to take the virus lightly. Willie retains his trademark wit in spite of his difficult experience, saying, “COVID ain’t nothing to laugh at, that’s for sure.” His tenacity and willpower motivate us all.
On September 24, don’t miss the chance to see Willie Nelson and his Family Band perform live at the Farm Aid 2022 Music Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina. A tremendous roster of performers, including Sheryl Crow, Chris Stapleton, Margo Price, and John Mellencamp, will be performing with him. Together, let’s honor the human spirit’s resilience and the power of music.
