Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer John Paris Wakes From Coma ‘Get Me Outta Here’

SAN FRANCISCO, CA. (THECOUNT) — John Paris, drummer for Earth, Wind & Fire, briefly awakened from an induced coma following a serious medical emergency but was later sedated again after his blood pressure increased and he experienced difficulty breathing, according to an update from his family’s supporters.

Paris was placed in an induced coma after being hospitalized following the medical emergency, allowing doctors to provide critical care while his condition remained serious. An update posted to a Facebook page created by Shelly White, wife of Earth, Wind & Fire co-founder Verdine White, provided the latest information on his condition.

During the brief period when Paris awakened, he opened his eyes and looked around before asking for his wife, musician Kathy Merrick. After seeing Merrick, Paris turned to a close friend identified as Eddie and jokingly said, “Get me outta here.”

The moment provided an emotional boost for those at his bedside, but Paris’ condition soon required additional medical intervention. His blood pressure began rising and he struggled to breathe, prompting doctors to sedate him again so his body could stabilize while treatment continued.

Paris remains under sedation as his medical team monitors his condition and evaluates the safest course of treatment. His supporters have described the situation as an ongoing medical battle and continue to ask fans to keep Paris and his family in their thoughts and prayers.

There have also been small signs that have encouraged those close to Paris. According to Shelly White’s update, he has appeared to show slight responses when music is played for him, offering a measure of hope as doctors continue monitoring his recovery.

Paris’ medical emergency occurred shortly before Earth, Wind & Fire was scheduled to perform with Lionel Richie at San Francisco’s Chase Center on Aug. 6. The concert was postponed shortly before showtime following the medical situation.

The San Francisco Fire Department previously confirmed that emergency crews responded to a cardiac incident and transported one person to a local hospital in critical condition. Paris was subsequently identified as the musician who had been hospitalized.

The latest update does not provide a specific diagnosis or detailed prognosis for Paris. His medical team continues to determine how best to proceed while monitoring his blood pressure, breathing and overall condition.

Supporters have described Paris’ recovery as a difficult process but say his journey is “far from over.” The family and those close to him continue to seek support as he remains hospitalized.

A GoFundMe campaign has also been established to help support Paris’ wife, Kathy Merrick, and the family during the ongoing medical crisis.

Via GoFundMe:

For decades, John Paris has been the heartbeat behind countless unforgettable performances with Earth, Wind & Fire. Fans around the world know and love him not only for his extraordinary talent behind the drums, but also for his kindness, infectious sense of humor, and the joy he has shared throughout his life.

Recently, just before taking the stage in San Francisco, John experienced a critical medical emergency and was rushed to the hospital. That evening’s concert was canceled, and John is now receiving the care he needs, surrounded by the love of his family and the prayers of countless friends and fans.

His wife, Kathy Merrick, a member of the legendary group Honey Cone, has remained by his side, along with their daughter, Kyla. With their home in the Los Angeles area, this unexpected medical crisis has brought not only emotional heartbreak, but also the growing burden of travel, lodging, meals, countless unexpected expenses, and the unforeseen challenges that lie ahead.

So Kathy can remain where she needs to be—by John’s side—Shelly Clark White, founding member of Honey Cone, has canceled the group’s remaining performances for at least the next couple of months.

As friends who love and care deeply for John and Kathy, Shelly Clark White and Wendy Smith-Brune’, member of Honey Cone, along with Tazz Cole, longtime friend of Shelly Clark White and Verdine White, have created this GoFundMe to help ease these unexpected expenses and challenges so Kathy can focus on what matters most—being by John’s side during this incredibly difficult time.

Today, we’re asking family, friends, fans, and the music community to surround John and Kathy with the same love, kindness, and generosity they have shared with so many throughout the years.

Thank you with love and gratitude

Paris’ condition remains serious, and additional information is expected as his doctors continue treatment and evaluate his response.

CLICK HERE FOR THE GOOGLE MAP

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