In a tragic turn of events, beloved New York troubadour Jesse Malin experienced a rare spinal cord infarction which has left him paralyzed from the waist down. Less than two months ago, on the last Saturday of March, Malin performed with his signature high-energy and crowd-engaging style at New York’s Webster Hall to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his solo debut album, The Fine Art of Self Destruction.
The incident occurred while Malin was dining with friends in the East Village, commemorating the anniversary of the death of Howie Pyro, Malin’s former bandmate and close friend from D Generation. He suddenly felt excruciating pain in his lower back, which gradually radiated down his legs, rendering him unable to walk. The severity of the situation became apparent as he collapsed onto the restaurant floor, bewildered and in pain.
Malin was swiftly carried by Jimmy G, lead singer of Murphy’s Law, from the restaurant to a nearby apartment building, where an ambulance was called to transport him to Mount Sinai Hospital. Since that day on May 4, the resilient performer, known for his dynamic stage presence and dives into the audience, has been coming to terms with his paralysis.
“This is the hardest six weeks that I’ve ever had,” Malin said during a phone call from his room at an NYU rehab facility to Rolling Stone. “The reports from the doctors have been tough, and there are moments in the day where you want to cry and where you’re scared. But I keep saying to myself that I can make this happen. I can recover my body.”
Malin’s unwavering optimism, often referred to as his “positive mental attitude” or P.M.A., has been a defining characteristic throughout his career. However, he acknowledged that summoning that positivity has been challenging in the face of his recent medical emergency. Still, he remains determined to embrace the recovery process and reclaim his mobility.
After receiving spinal procedures at Mount Sinai, Malin was transferred to NYU’s rehab center on May 18. His days now revolve around intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation sessions, with the immediate goal of relearning how to navigate daily tasks without the use of his legs. Upon his release later this month, he will require a wheelchair and a new apartment that complies with ADA accessibility standards. The financial burden of these changes, along with the long-term care and outpatient rehabilitation costs, weighs heavily on Malin, who, despite being a working musician with years of touring and album releases, does not have the means to support himself fully.
To aid in Malin’s care and recovery, his manager David Bason–along with a group of friends– has launched a fundraising campaign through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. The campaign aims to generate financial support for the musician’s ongoing medical expenses and rehabilitation. Donations can be made through the campaign’s website and are fully tax-deductible.
Malin, known for his unwavering support of the New York rock and roll community, admits to having mixed feelings about seeking assistance for himself. Throughout his career, he has championed various causes, organized benefit concerts, and financially supported local initiatives. Now, as he finds himself in need, he grapples with the idea of becoming the beneficiary.
While recovering from his stroke, Malin finds solace in his creative achievements. His song “New York Comeback,” co-written with Lucinda Williams, reached Number One on Americana radio charts last week. The irony is not lost on Malin, who further reflected on the bittersweet nature of his current situation.
“Even though this has been the hardest time of my life, there have been some gifts,” Malin continued to share with Rolling Stone. “I’m getting to see the support of my friends, fans, and people in this world. Though I would have really preferred a birthday party than to find out this way.”
As Jesse Malin confronts this new chapter in his life, his unwavering determination and the outpouring of support from the music community will undoubtedly play a vital role in his journey to recovery.
Donate in support of Malin’s recovery here.