Jesse Malin, the New York troubadour, recently experienced a rare spinal stroke that has left him paralyzed since May. Despite facing challenging moments filled with tears and fear, he remains determined to regain his ability to walk and dance.
During a concert at Webster Hall in March, Malin, known for his energetic performances, leaped off the stage and interacted with the crowd, embodying his vision of walking, strutting, and dancing to and from the stage. However, a few weeks later, while dining in the East Village to commemorate the anniversary of his friend’s passing, he felt a sudden and intense pain in his back. The pain progressed down his body, rendering him unable to walk. Confused and immobilized, Malin was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was diagnosed with a spinal-cord infarction.
The past six weeks have been exceptionally challenging for Malin. Doctors have expressed uncertainty about his condition and chances of recovery, leading to moments of despair and fear. However, Malin’s unwavering optimism, which he refers to as “P.M.A.” (positive mental attitude), has been tested since the incident.
During a recent wheelchair outing, Malin was overwhelmed by the sight of the sun shining through the glass of the lobby. The experience brought him to tears as he felt like a stranger in his own movie. Despite the emotional rollercoaster, he managed to compose himself and find solace in the park, breathing in the fresh air.
Following various spinal procedures at Mount Sinai, Malin was transferred to NYU’s rehabilitation center, where he undergoes intense physical therapy and rehabilitation. His immediate goal is to learn how to move his body without relying on his legs and perform daily tasks. Upon discharge later this month, he will need to relocate to a new wheelchair-accessible apartment with an elevator, which comes with its own financial burden.
Like many musicians facing unforeseen medical events, Malin lacks the financial resources to support his long-term care and outpatient rehabilitation, despite his years of touring, album releases, and health insurance. Consequently, a campaign has been launched by his manager, David Bason, and a group of friends through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund to raise funds for Malin’s care. Donations can be made to support his recovery.
Although Malin has been a dedicated supporter of the rock & roll community and various causes, he finds it difficult to ask for help himself. The experience of being unable to walk and the associated challenges have humbled him. Furthermore, he has suffered financial setbacks due to the cancellation of his planned summer tour following the stroke.
Malin believes in the power of truth and openness, which led him to share the extent of his situation with the public. He recognizes that recovery will not happen overnight and that it will require substantial effort and adjustment to a life in a wheelchair. Despite the challenges, he experiences a sense of liberation in embracing his current reality.
Interestingly, Malin’s creative success continues amidst adversity. His song “New York Comeback,” co-written with Lucinda Williams, who faced her own stroke in 2020, reached Number One on Americana radio last week.
Throughout this difficult period, Malin has discovered the invaluable support of his friends, fans, and the broader community. While the circumstances may not have been ideal, he appreciates the outpouring of love and support, even though he would have preferred a different way to receive it.