After a tragic diagnosis of Parkinson's disease led Neil Diamond to cancel the remainder of his 50th anniversary tour in 2018, as well as announcing his retirement, it seemed that the famed singer was done performing. In March 2020, though, Diamond proved that he could still surprise the world. According to USA Today, during the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala charity event in Las Vegas, the then-79 year old musician amazed his fans by walking onto the stage in one of his trademark shimmering coats, taking the mic, and singing a parade of his most famous songs, including "Sweet Caroline," "Love on Rocks," and "Hello Again," with the help of fellow artists such as Katlyn Nichol and Billy Ray Cyrus. This night was the perfect comeback vehicle for Diamond, as the event itself benefited the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, and during the same gala, he was honored with an award that celebrated his long and influential career.
Sadly, there remains no cure for Parkinson's. However, Diamond has done his best to keep ahead of the disease's progression by staying active, staying social, taking his medications, and continuing to engage in the art he's passionate about. When asked at the gala how he was doing, Diamond replied, "I'm feeling great. This is an important thing [the charity is] doing, and I feel honored to be part of it and take part in it."
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