Zac Brown Band's John Driskell Hopkins Gives Fans a Health Update on His ALS Diagnosis
John Driskell Hopkins (Hop), a founding member of the Zac Brown Band, has been a key contributor to ZBB's success since the very beginning of their career in 2005. From his distinctive baritone vocals to his skills as a guitarist and banjo player as well as his work writing and producing music, his role has been absolutely essential to the band's Grammy Awards and chart-topping hits.
Back in May 2022, John announced he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in December 2021. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the gradual loss of voluntary muscle control, according to Mayo Clinic. ALS imposes severe physical limitations, impacting the ability to speak, eat, move and breathe.
In an exclusive interview with People, John gave an update on how he's doing post-diagnosis. "I don't feel a lot different than I did last year. I can tell that some things are continuing to slow down," he revealed. "My voice is being affected and that's something that I really notice as a singer, but I'm still playing and I'm still performing and still singing."
Despite the debilitating effects of ALS, John has displayed remarkable strength and resilience, channeling his energy into continuing to perform and record new music with the band, and work on his nonprofit, Hop on a Cure. John's nonprofit raises money for ALS research and creates a community of support for others battling the disease.
He credits his wife, Jennifer, and their three daughters for keeping him motivated and optimistic in the face of adversity. "Every year I get to do that (tour with the band) is another year that I feel immeasurably blessed," John told People.
Through his journey, Hopkins has continued to stay positive, becoming an inspiration and a beacon of light for all. You can donate and learn more about Hop on a Cure through its website.
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