In the new documentary Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Patti Scialfa, Bruce Springsteen’s wife and a core member of the E Street Band, opens up about her battle with multiple myeloma, a rare cancer she was diagnosed with in 2018.
The documentary premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, where Scialfa shared how her illness has impacted her ability to tour and perform.
Scialfa, who joined the E Street Band in 1984, has also had a successful solo career, releasing multiple albums. Throughout her musical journey, she has collaborated with notable artists such as Don Cherry, Narda Michael Walden, David Johansen, and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. In addition to her work as a singer, she’s also a songwriter and has produced films and documentaries.
Scialfa and Springsteen married in 1991 and have three children together: sons Evan and Samuel, and daughter Jessica. Reflecting on the challenges she’s faced since her diagnosis, Scialfa said, “It felt so good to be back on stage,” though she acknowledged the difficulties. “Touring has become a challenge for me. This affects my immune system, so I have to be careful about what I do and where I go.” Because of this, her performances are now limited, with occasional appearances.
Despite her health struggles, Scialfa remains optimistic. “Every once in a while, I come to a show or two and sing a few songs on stage, and that’s been a treat,” she added.
Though Scialfa did not attend the documentary’s premiere, which will be available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+ on October 25, she noted that the film offers fans “a side of our relationship that you usually don’t get to see.”
“Being back onstage with Bruce is a blast,” she shared. “Every night on this tour is a chance for the band to celebrate.”
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