Phil Demmel, lead guitarist for Machine Head, has issued a statement about passing out onstage in Bristow, Virginia on August 17 during the band's Rockstar Energy Mayhem set.
"I've suffered from episodes of Cardiogenic Syncope for the last 17 years or so," Demmel said. "But [doctors] ran a series of tests that came up inconclusive. I hadn't had it happen for awhile until last December in Italy, when I passed out roughly about the time my father passed away back in the States. The incident in Virginia felt similar to what has happened in the past. I have to thank my techs Alan, Brian and good friend Chief for catching me."
The Texas Arrhythmia Institute Website describes Cardiogenic Syncope as "sudden failure of the heart as a pump," which can cause fainting. The "failure" may be due to inefficient pumping either due to "a change in the pattern of muscle contraction or to the lack of time for the heart to fill completely."
"Today is the last day of the Mayhem Festival and I will be seeing my specialist within the week," said Demmel. "I appreciate all the concern from all my family, friends and fans."
Demmel had said he felt dehydrated before the show and told his guitar tech he felt light-headed moments before collapsing during the last song of the show, Metal Hammer wrote.
"That was a scary moment for all of us," drummer Dave McClain said after the incident. "Seeing your friend collapse like that is something that nobody wants to experience. He's doing much better now and taking it easy on the bus."
Comments