Sir Elton John opens up about the ‘distressing’ toll of his vision loss

Sir Elton John has opened up about the emotional toll of his recent vision problems, revealing that although “it’s distressing” he is determined to press on.

The 78-year-old singer revealed in an Instagram post in September 2024 that his vision had been affected in his right eye after contracting an infection.

“Over the summer, I’ve been dealing with a severe eye infection that has unfortunately left me with only limited vision in one eye,” he explained at the time.

“I am healing but it’s an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye.

“I am so grateful for the excellent team of doctors and nurses and my family, who have taken such good care of me over the last several weeks.

“I have been quietly spending the summer recuperating at home, and am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery thus far.”

In a recent interview with The Times, Sir Elton elaborated on the emotional strain his vision loss has caused and how he has been coping.

“I can see you, but I can’t see TV, I can’t read, I can’t see my boys playing rugby and soccer, and it has been a very stressful time because I’m used to soaking it all up,” he told the publication.

“‘It’s distressing. You get emotional, but you have to get used to it because I’m lucky to have the life I have.

“I still have my wonderful family, and I can still see something out of (my left eye). So you say to yourself, just get on with it.”

Despite the challenges, Sir Elton’s optimistic outlook remains unwavering. In a separate interview with The Guardian, he shared a glimpse into his resilient mindset

“I’m an optimist permanently,” he told the publication.

“I’ve got bad eyesight at the moment. There have been days where I’ve been miserable, but then I think about how lucky I am. I’ve got a new respect for sight-impaired people and people who are totally blind, some of whom I’m in touch with.

“But to hell with it, I’ve got a great life, and hopefully my sight will improve.”

-with BANG.