As most of you know, Jeff suddenly and
unexpectedly lost his vision in the summer of
2011. He was devastated to learn that he wouldn't
be able to do what we all take for granted: drive
a car, dial a phone, read a menu, see a sunset, watch a
movie or, most significantly, see the faces of his wife
and sons.
Jeff faced this challenge with
determination, humor and bravery. With the support
of his family and friends, he learned to walk with a
cane and later to use a guide dog. He learned to
use a voice-activated cell phone, independently mastered
a speech-to-text app for his computer and worked with a
mobility trainer to navigate bumps in the sidewalk,
cross the street, use public transportation, and much
more. In a matter of months, Jeff taught himself
to read Braille. Throughout all of this, Jeff continued
to write and record music, travel to performances, play
his music and support his family.
In late 2012, Jeff's wife noticed changes
in his behavior and appearance. Psychiatrists and
neurologists evaluated him without any clear
conclusions. A number of medications were tried
without results. Despite growing concern, Jeff
remained resolved to support his family. He continued
writing, recording, traveling and playing, simply trying
to live with integrity. Although his day-to-day
life was becoming increasingly challenging, Jeff made it
clear that he felt at home and himself when playing his
music. In 2013, Jeff even released a new album, "Train
Keeps A Rolling" including the hit single, "Pusherman",
currently Billboard's number one smooth jazz song for
the fourth week in a row.
By mid 2013, Jeff was no longer taking any
medications because none had produced results.
However, his speech, gait and appearance had
changed. Many doctors continue to evaluate him but
none can provide a concrete diagnosis or
treatment. They believe Jeff has an unidentified
neurological condition and his loss of vision is just
one component of a larger issue.
For the time being, Jeff's managers and
promoters have decided that Jeff should focus on his
health and not on his work. In other words, Jeff
is no longer being booked for performances.
Of course, those who know Jeff are
concerned and have questions about his condition.
Although we don't have any concrete answers at the
moment, we hope to reduce speculation and rumors by
providing as much information as possible. Jeff's
speech, appearance, mannerisms, movements and thought
processes have been affected by his condition.
However, his behavior is not in any way a result of
drinking, drugs, medication or a
stroke.
Jeff recently said about his blindness,
"Everything I do is a challenge and everything I do is a
victory." The love and support of friends, family,
colleagues and fans are invaluable and deeply
appreciated. Jeff and his family are honored to have you
all in their lives and on their
side.
