Jesse Malin Battles Rare Spinal Stroke: Determined to Regain Mobility and Dance Once More

Jesse Malin: Jesse Malin, Rock Musician, Faces Challenges After Spinal-Cord Infarction, Launches Fundraising Campaign for Long-Term Care

In late March, Jesse Malin, a seasoned rock musician, was performing at Webster Hall in New York City, as he had done countless times before. However, just weeks after this successful show, tragedy struck when Malin experienced an extremely rare spinal-cord infarction while having dinner with friends. The excruciating pain rapidly spread through his body, rendering him unable to walk and leading to his collapse on the restaurant floor.

Recalling the distressing incident from his room at an NYU rehabilitation facility, Malin shared the confusion and helplessness he felt as people around him attempted to comprehend what was happening. Transported to Mount Sinai Hospital on May 4, the vibrant performer, known for his energetic stage presence, has been paralyzed from the waist down since.

Despite the challenges and the uncertainty surrounding his condition, Malin remains optimistic. Throughout his career, he has championed a positive mental attitude (P.M.A.), drawing inspiration from the Bad Brains' song "Attitude." However, the unforeseen medical emergency tested his resilience. He admitted that maintaining a positive outlook has been a struggle in the wake of this traumatic event.

Currently undergoing rehabilitation at NYU, Malin's daily routine includes intensive physical therapy with the short-term goal of relearning movements without the use of his legs. However, the costs associated with his long-term care and outpatient rehabilitation pose a significant financial burden, even with health insurance. Recognizing this predicament, Malin's manager, David Bason, and a group of friends launched a fundraising campaign through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund to support his ongoing care.

While Malin has been a staunch advocate for the rock and roll community, often lending his support to charitable causes and benefit concerts, he now finds himself on the receiving end of assistance. Although hesitant to ask for help, he acknowledges the humbling experience of being unable to walk and the necessity of relying on others.

In addition to the personal challenges he faces, Malin has also suffered financial setbacks due to the cancellation of a planned summer tour following his stroke. Despite his initial reluctance to disclose the extent of his condition, he decided it was time to share the truth with his fans. Malin believes that, although his current state is temporary, recovery will require substantial effort and adaptation to life in a wheelchair.

Ironically, amid these difficult circumstances, Malin finds solace in the success of his song "New York Comeback," co-written with Lucinda Williams, who herself experienced a stroke in 2020. The song recently topped the charts at Americana radio, providing a poignant reflection of Malin's hopes for his own situation.

To support Jesse Malin's long-term care, tax-deductible donations can be made through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.