Peter Frampton, the singer and guitarist whose live album “Frampton Comes Alive” became one of the best-selling records of all time, has announced his farewell tour as he struggles with a rare and incurable muscular disease. Frampton, 68, revealed he has inclusion body myositis (IBM), a condition that causes progressive weakness and wasting of the muscles, especially in the arms and legs.
What is IBM and How Does It Affect Frampton?
IBM is a type of inflammatory myopathy, a group of diseases that involve chronic inflammation of the muscles. The cause of IBM is unknown, but it may be related to an abnormal immune response or a genetic mutation. IBM usually develops after age 50 and affects men more often than women.
The symptoms of IBM include:
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or rising from a chair
- Frequent falls or tripping
- Weakness and atrophy of the muscles in the arms, hands, fingers, and wrists
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Facial weakness or drooping eyelids
There is no cure for IBM and no effective treatment to stop or reverse its progression. The only available therapies are aimed at managing the symptoms and preventing complications such as infections, malnutrition, or respiratory failure.
Frampton was diagnosed with IBM about four years ago after he noticed he was falling more often and had trouble lifting objects over his head. He said he felt the disease accelerate last year after he finished his tour. He also noticed that his finger flexors, which are essential for playing guitar, were affected by the disease.
“I’m a perfectionist and I do not want to go out there and feel like, ‘Oh I can’t, this isn’t good.’ That would be a nightmare for me,” he said. “I’ve been playing guitar for 60 years. Started when I was eight and now I’m 68. So, I’ve had a very good run.”
I have a muscular ailment called IBM, or inclusion body myositis. I’m gradually losing the ability to utilize my hands, arms, and leg muscles:
I have IBM or Inclusion Body Myositis a muscle disease. I’m am slowly losing use of the muscles in my legs, arms and hands. The service dog will help me in numerous ways as well as be my buddy so I can stop talking to myself. Lol
— Peter Frampton (@peterframpton) April 4, 2021
How is Frampton Coping With His Condition?
Frampton said he is not giving up on music and is determined to make the most of his remaining time as a performer. He said he has been recording new songs at a frantic pace, completing 33 tracks in less than six months. He also plans to embark on a farewell tour this summer, which will feature special guests and span across North America and Europe.
“I want to go out screaming as opposed to crying,” he said. “It’s not going to be ‘woe is me.’ It’s going to be positive. It’s going to be fun.” Frampton is also participating in a clinical trial for a new drug that may slow down the progression of IBM. He said he does not know if he is receiving the drug or a placebo, but he hopes it will help him and other patients with the disease.
In addition, Frampton said he exercises regularly to maintain his muscle strength and mobility. He works out with a trainer three times a week and does yoga every day. He also tries to stay positive and grateful for his life and career.
“I’m thinking of all the times in my life that I have something devastating has happened to my career or in my family or me. I’ve brushed myself off, got myself up, and changed directions,” he said.
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How Can Fans Support Frampton and Raise Awareness for IBM?
Frampton said he is thankful for the love and support from his fans and friends. He said he wants to use his platform to raise awareness and funds for research on IBM. He has partnered with the Johns Hopkins Myositis Center, where he receives his treatment, to create the Peter Frampton Myositis Research Fund.
Fans can donate to the fund through the website www.frampton.com or by texting “FRAMPTON” to 41444. Frampton said he hopes his fund will help find a cure for IBM and improve the lives of people who suffer from it.
“I am so thankful for everyone’s incredible support and love. I am now going to help raise awareness for IBM. Please help if you can so we can find a cure for this cruel disease,” he tweeted.
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