Earth, Wind & Fire has issued an update on drummer John Paris, who has been fighting for his life in hospital.
On 7 August, the American band said that they had cancelled a San Francisco gig after a member suffered a “medical emergency”.
An update on the band’s Facebook page, posted a week later, revealed that Paris had been placed in a medically induced coma.
Doctors were providing “critical care” to the 58-year-old, the band said.
On Thursday, the band said that Paris had since woken from his coma, but will require two surgeries in the coming days.
There had been “both encouraging moments and new challenges” over the past few weeks, a statement said.
“Since our last few updates, there have been both encouraging moments and new challenges,” the statement read.
“As we’ve said from the beginning, recovery isn’t a straight line, and John’s journey continues to remind us of that every day.
“Many of you may remember that earlier in John’s journey, he briefly awakened before needing to be sedated again.
“Since then, we’ve experienced another significant milestone – John woke up again.
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“This time, there was encouraging progress.”
Paris’s medical team monitored him closely over the days following his reawakening, the band said.
“Unlike the first time he awakened, John’s blood pressure remained stable and his breathing stayed strong, allowing doctors to continue evaluating his condition.”
Testing showed doctors that Paris will need “two major surgeries”, the band said.
“Because of that, John will remain in the ICU longer than everyone had hoped while his medical team carefully prepares him for the next phase of his treatment.”
Earth, Wind & Fire were formed in Chicago in 1969 and have sold 90 million records, are best known for their hits “September”, “Boogie Wonderland” and “Shining Star”. Paris joined them in 2001.
Blending R&B, funk and soul sounds, they have won six Grammy Awards and were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2000.
Paris’s wife Kathy Merrick added in the same statement: “This journey is definitely a marathon, but JP is fighting every single day and our hope is strong. Please keep the prayers, love, and light coming for John, Kathy, Kyla, and the entire family.”
The statement continued: “John has already overcome obstacles that once seemed impossible, and while there is still a long road ahead, each step forward gives everyone around him renewed hope.
“We will share updates as we are able and when there is meaningful news to report.”
A GoFundMe has been created to help Paris’s family during his recovery, with a goal of raising US$90,00 (£65,884).