Carly Simon Reveals Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis

Her problems began with arthritis in one hip and both knees. She had surgery to replace all three joints, but her ability to walk kept getting worse. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota then examined her and made the diagnosis. Parkinson's disease happens when brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical that controls movement and mood, slowly stop working. Early signs include shaking, stiff muscles, slow movement and poor balance. Later, patients may also suffer from depression, anxiety and memory problems. The Parkinson's Foundation says the disease affects more than 10 million people worldwide.

There is no cure, but medicine, physical therapy and support can control the symptoms. Simon takes medicine for stiffness. She said that recording her new album, "Comes in Waves", which comes out on 14 August, gave shape to her days. Music, she added, has rescued her many times. She now moves more slowly and depends on others, but she wants people to know that she is still here.