Matthew Sweet, the voice behind '90s anthems like "Girlfriend" and "Sick of Myself," is now fighting his toughest battle yet—a debilitating stroke. The alt-rock musician's world turned upside down after a medical emergency struck in Toronto. With a canceled tour and a daunting recovery ahead, fans and friends are stepping up in a big way.
- Matthew Sweet has had a stroke
- He is known as a 90s rock star
- His managers has updated fans on his condition
A Stroke Strikes: The Immediate Aftermath
In an unexpected twist of fate, Matthew Sweet, the revered singer-songwriter known for his catchy '90s hits, has been hit with a life-altering challenge. On October 12, Sweet suffered a debilitating stroke in Toronto, casting a shadow over his vibrant music career.
Russell Carter, Sweet's manager, shared the harrowing news, revealing the sudden cancellation of Sweet's eagerly anticipated cross-country tour.
"Last week, Matthew Sweet was forced to cancel an extensive cross-country tour of both headline dates and opening slots for longtime friends, Hanson after suffering a debilitating stroke in Toronto late Saturday evening (October 12)," his manager Russell Carter in a statement.
Added Carter: "Matthew was quickly admitted to Toronto Western Hospital where he was put into excellent care and taken out of immediate danger. Matthew was transferred to a rehabilitation center back home in Omaha today where he will undergo extensive therapy. He is now on a long, difficult road to recovery."
Sweet's medical emergency sent shockwaves through the music community. Admitted to Toronto Western Hospital, he was quickly placed under the care of top medical professionals, pulling him out of immediate danger. The journey didn't end there; Sweet was transferred to a rehabilitation center in Omaha, where a grueling recovery process awaits.
Help on the way
In the face of adversity, Catherine Lyons, a key figure in Sweet's management team, launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his recovery. The goal? To cover the staggering costs of medical care, specialized rehabilitation, and the long road of therapy ahead. Lyons highlighted the harsh reality: "Health care is not free for Americans in Canada," pointing out the urgent need for financial support to bring Sweet back to the States for care.
"Matthew Sweet, our longtime inspiration and dear friend, suffered a debilitating stroke this past week in Toronto while in the early days of a national tour," she wrote alongside the fundraiser. "He has been unexpectedly and tragically forced off the road and onto a long, uncertain path to recovery. We are asking for financial help in this difficult time from his family, friends, and fans. Without insurance or touring income, Matthew faces an enormous financial burden."
The response? Astounding. Fans and well-wishers have poured in over $185,000, showcasing the deep love and respect for Sweet's musical legacy. From his breakout album 'Girlfriend' to his latest work 'Catspaw,' Sweet's influence on the '90s power-pop movement is undeniable. Now, as he faces months of treatment and rehabilitation, the support of his fans means more than ever.
Lyons added that Sweet will need "months of treatment and rehabilitation" and the treatment costs "will be overwhelming."
"We anticipate a total close to a quarter of a million dollars," she wrote. "Your thoughts, love, and support will mean the world to him. But please donate financially if you possibly can. Matthew will be forever grateful to you."
Also interesting:
Sweet's journey from the music scene in Athens, Georgia, to becoming a '90s music icon is a testament to his talent and perseverance.
With 15 albums under his belt, his contribution to music is immense. As Sweet embarks on this difficult path to recovery, the outpouring of love and financial support is a powerful reminder of the impact he's had on the lives of many.