Rock Legend Lost: Ozzy Osbourne Dies
Ozzy Osbourne’s Passing
Ozzy Osbourne died at 76, about six years after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. His family shared, “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning.” He died “surrounded by love” at his home in the UK on July 22.
Final Performance and Health Struggles
Just 17 days before his death, Ozzy gave a “heartfelt farewell performance” in Birmingham, where Black Sabbath reunited after 20 years and raised $190 million for charity. However, his health had been declining. After a 2019 fall, he needed multiple back surgeries, with the second operation in 2023 “drastically wrong” and “virtually left [him] crippled.”
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Ozzy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019. This neurodegenerative illness targets dopamine-producing brain cells and worsens over time. The Parkinson’s Foundation says symptoms include “slowness of movement,” tremors, and “rigidity” or stiffness. Diagnosis requires bradykinesia plus either stiffness or tremors.
Beyond Movement Symptoms
Parkinson’s affects more than just movement. Non-motor symptoms can be worse, including “sleep disturbances,” mental health issues like “apathy, sadness, and worry,” plus constipation, memory problems, and difficulty speaking or swallowing. The Foundation advises, “Get in touch with your physician if you have any worries.”
