In an emotional return to the spotlight, Jamie Foxx has laid bare the harrowing details of a medical ordeal that nearly claimed his life, revealing in his latest Netflix special, "Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was...," that he suffered from a severe brain bleed leading to a stroke.
The Incident Unfolds
The saga began on April 11, 2023, while Foxx was in Atlanta filming his upcoming movie "Back in Action." What started as a headache quickly escalated into a life-threatening emergency. Foxx shared that he lost consciousness and has no recollection of the following 20 days, a period he described as being "in the tunnel but not seeing the light."
A Race Against Time
His sister, Deidra Dixon, played a pivotal role in his survival, ensuring he was taken to Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta where doctors performed emergency surgery. "They told my sister I wouldn't make it without surgery," Foxx recounted, emphasizing the gravity of his condition. The actor was then transferred to a rehabilitation center in Chicago, renowned for its expertise in stroke recovery, where he faced the arduous journey back to health.
The Road to Recovery
Foxx's recovery was no less than a battle. He detailed the physical therapy sessions where he had to relearn how to walk, underscoring the humility and patience required in such a process. "You realize how much you take for granted," he said, reflecting on the simple act of walking. His family, particularly his daughters Corinne and Anelise, provided unwavering support during this period, visiting him frequently at the rehab center.
Public Appearances and Gratitude
Foxx's first public appearance post-recovery was at the Critics Choice Association Celebration of Cinema & Television in December 2023, where he accepted a Vanguard Award for his role in "The Burial." Here, he shared with the audience how he could not even walk six months prior, a testament to the severity of his condition and his remarkable recovery.
In his Netflix special, Foxx expressed profound gratitude towards the medical team, his family, and fans, whose prayers and support he credits for his survival. He also took the time to debunk rumors that circulated on social media and conspiracy theories, particularly those suggesting he was blind or paralyzed, assuring viewers, "As you can see, the eyes are working, the eyes are working just fine."
A New Perspective
The experience has evidently changed Foxx, giving him a new perspective on life and his career. "I cherish every minute now," he confessed, highlighting how close he came to losing everything. His special not only served as a platform to share his story but also as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of loved ones.
Jamie Foxx's journey from a near-fatal stroke to returning to the stage with humor and grace is a story of resilience, family, and the human spirit's capacity for recovery. His candid revelations in "What Had Happened Was..." not only provide closure to fans and well-wishers but also serve as an inspiration to those facing their own battles with health and recovery.
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