The renowned Judas Priest guitarist Richie Faulkner continues to navigate significant health challenges stemming from a catastrophic aortic aneurysm and multiple intricate open-heart surgeries. In a recent interview, he candidly revealed that he has suffered permanent brain damage as a consequence of these medical emergencies.

In September 2021, during a breathtaking performance at the Louder Than Life Festival in Kentucky, Faulkner collapsed onstage due to a ruptured aorta, which necessitated immediate surgical intervention. Since then, he has undergone several additional surgeries, and the repercussions of these health crises have proven to be enduring and life-altering.

In a conversation with Premier Guitar, Faulkner disclosed that approximately a month after his initial surgery, he experienced what was later diagnosed as a TIA, or transient ischaemic attack, commonly known as a “mini-stroke.” Although he cannot recall the specific details of that day, medical professionals informed him that a TIA can be a precursor to a more severe stroke. A year later, he suffered another TIA, leading to yet another heart surgery. By that time, Judas Priest had resumed touring with Faulkner, having received clearance from his doctors, but he sensed something was amiss.

“There was an odd sensation in my right hand,” he shared (via Blabbermouth). “I initially thought it was my rings; I had been wearing these ridiculous rings for some reason. So, I removed them, thinking they were the issue. I was switching my picks, yet something felt different. I managed to cope, but I could tell there was a change in my right hand. One morning while brushing my teeth, it hit me that something was definitely wrong with my right hand.”

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After thorough examinations by medical professionals, Faulkner discovered that the situation was more severe than he had anticipated; he hadn’t merely experienced mini-strokes.

“The doctors told me that because the symptoms hadn’t subsided, it wasn’t a TIA; it was a stroke,” he elaborated. “TIA-induced damage can recover over time, but with a stroke, the damage is permanent. I had previously felt some cognitive impairment, but this was a confirmed issue. It’s a minor issue localized on the left side of my brain.”

Faulkner’s Emotional Battle with Performance Anxiety

Simultaneously, Faulkner expressed deep concern over letting Judas Priest fans down due to how his health issues were impacting his performance on stage.

“I feel a strong sense of responsibility towards my fanbase, the guitar brands, and the string companies that have placed their trust in me. I truly don’t want anyone to discover my struggles because once they do, they may lose faith and withdraw their support,” he explained. “In a band like Judas Priest, we must deliver world-class performances, and I don’t feel like I’m at that level anymore. Every night, I step on stage feeling like a fraud, knowing that fans might not realize the challenges I’m facing—but eventually, the truth will come to light. Someone will notice that I’m not performing at my usual standard.”

Despite these challenges, Faulkner has taken his setbacks as an opportunity to embrace the situation and inspire others.

“I recognize that many individuals, whether they play music, sing, or engage in other pursuits, often feel inadequate or face their own personal challenges that affect their mental health,” he remarked. “I want them to understand they are not alone. There are likely countless others facing similar struggles, more than we can even imagine.”