Black Sabbath drummer to his fans: "Don't worry if you see me in a wheelchair".

Bill Ward, the original drummer of the legendary rock band Black Sabbath, has shared updates about his health and future plans with fans on social media. In a recent post, Ward revealed that he has been using a wheelchair more frequently due to mobility issues but emphasized that this does not signal the end of his musical career. At 78 years old, Ward remains active and committed to performing, despite the physical challenges he faces. The British musician posted a photograph of himself seated on a wheelchair, smiling and looking content. He explained that he began using the wheelchair approximately 18 months ago and has found it increasingly necessary, especially during travel or public appearances. Ward clarified that while he can still walk, doing so without rest is difficult, and he often finds himself needing to sit down. This revelation comes as part of a broader message to his fans, friends, family, and even those he hasn't yet met, reassuring them that he is not retiring or unwell. Ward, who co-founded Black Sabbath in 1968 alongside vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi, and bassist Geezer Butler, expressed confidence in his ability to continue drumming. He stated, “I’m still a drummer. For my age, I play pretty well.” His comments reflect both pride in his enduring passion for music and acknowledgment of the natural progression of aging. Ward also mentioned that his artistic drive, ambition, and love for playing drums remain as strong as ever, emphasizing that these qualities have not diminished over time. He further assured fans that seeing him in a wheelchair does not mean he is in retirement or poor health. Instead, he described it as a practical necessity, adding that he intends to keep performing until the very end of his life. This statement was made in response to questions surrounding his health and whether he would continue his involvement with Black Sabbath, a band whose legacy continues to influence generations of musicians worldwide. Ward’s announcement follows a significant milestone earlier this year when he celebrated his birthday and reflected on reaching such an advanced age. He admitted that sometimes he feels as though he has lived multiple lives, suggesting that he might indeed have experienced several lifetimes given the longevity of his career and personal journey. His contributions to the development of heavy metal have earned him recognition, including a special honor from the city of Birmingham, where he was born. In May of this year, Ward joined the original members of Black Sabbath for their farewell concert titled Back To The Beginning, marking their first live performance together after two decades apart. This event was particularly poignant as it came just months before the passing of Ozzy Osbourne, who died at the age of 76. Osbourne had been battling Parkinson's disease, which severely impacted his ability to stand or walk without assistance. Ward’s participation in this historic concert highlighted the deep bonds between the founding members of Black Sabbath and underscored the significance of their reunion. As Ward continues to navigate the challenges of aging, his commitment to music remains unwavering. Fans around the world eagerly await his future performances and projects, hoping to witness the continued brilliance of one of the most influential figures in the history of rock music. His resilience and dedication serve as inspiration to many, proving that age need not be a barrier to creativity or passion.