Madonna shared with the audience in Los Angeles, during the opening of "The Celebration Tour," about the severity of her health emergency last summer. She mentioned that her doctor, Dr. David Agus, and the rest of her medical team were present in the audience.
"It was a strange feeling to not be in control," she mentioned about the bacterial infection that put her in the ICU in July. According to a video of her comments, Madonna added, "I've fallen off many horses and broken many bones. I even have a titanium hip. The list goes on, but nothing can hold me back."
Madonna, who has talked about her journey to recovery in the past during tour shows, shared that she considered her recent health scare as a "near-death experience."
"It was really frightening, I'm not joking. I was in a coma for four days, so I had no idea what was going on. But when I finally woke up, the first thing I said was 'No.' That's what my assistant told me, anyway."
She expressed, "I believe God was inviting me to join Him, asking if I wanted to come along or go in a certain direction. But I declined, saying 'No. No. No!'"
She referred to Dr. Agus as "a remarkable individual present in the audience this evening."
"He has been so patient with all the funny phone calls I made to him. Last summer, when I was so sick that I couldn't even walk from my bed to the toilet, I would call him every other day and complain about my lack of energy," she shared. "I kept asking him when my energy would return, when I would start feeling like myself again, when I could go back on tour. I bombarded him with questions, and all he would say is, 'Just go outside and soak up some sun.'"
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 14: (Exclusive Coverage) Madonna performs during opening night of The Celebration Tour at The O2 Arena on October 14, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Live Nation)
On October 14, 2023, Madonna kicked off The Celebration Tour at The O2 Arena in London, England. The exclusive event was captured by photographer Kevin Mazur.
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When she mentioned that her flawless skin was a result of avoiding the sun, Dr. Agus advised, "You should go outside in the sun. Your body needs vitamin D to support your kidneys."
Madonna admitted, "I really dislike the sun, but I followed the advice anyway. It was a challenge for me to walk from my house to the backyard and expose myself to the sun." She added, "It may sound strange, but it was a struggle for me. I was uncertain about when I could stand up again, regain my energy, and feel like myself. It was a new experience to feel out of control. This experience taught me the importance of letting go."
She ended by expressing gratitude to all those who supported her, listened to her complaints, and provided predictions she couldn't make. Their patience and kindness were greatly appreciated, especially in helping care for sick loved ones. Thank you to each and every one of you.
Lastly, she gave special thanks to her children for their hard work and support, which helped her stay strong and not disappoint them.
Editor's P/S:
Madonna's vulnerability and resilience in sharing her near-death experience is both inspiring and sobering. Her admission of feeling out of control and acknowledging the fragility of life is a reminder that even the most iconic figures face challenges and mortality. It's also a testament to the power of seeking support and embracing the unpredictability of life.
Madonna's journey to recovery emphasizes the importance of listening to our bodies, seeking professional advice, and trusting the process of healing. Her gratitude for her medical team, family, and supporters is a reminder of the immense value of human connection and the strength we can find in others during difficult times. Her story serves as a powerful reminder to cherish life, embrace vulnerability, and appreciate the support of loved ones who help us navigate life's challenges.