Zac Brown Band’s John Driskell Hopkins’ Making Most Of Life Amid ALS
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John Driskell Hopkins has had immense success with the Grammy-winning Zac Brown Band. He is the bassist and has been for over two decades, but sadly, he has been diagnosed with ALS. Therefore, he is making the most out of his life, even if it hurts him. Keep reading for more on his life philosophy.
John Driskell Hopkins’ Taking On Life
As a part of the Zac Brown Band, John Driskell Hopkins plays a vital role as the bassist. He has been in the band since 2005, and they have won 3 Grammy awards. Yet, in his personal life, the 55-year-old is dealing with his ALS diagnosis. This has become far more prevalent since Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane lost his life to it. 90 Day Fiance star Jenny Slatten is currently dealing with ALS, and fans are watching her speech slow every day. John is feeling the effects, but he is trying to live his life to the fullest despite the disease.
He has noted that he thinks he may be setting himself back as he is attempting to pack it all in. The bassist is working, he is traveling, he is with his family, he is everything. However, John does not really care as time is precious, and there is not as much left as he had hoped:
I’m almost busier now than I was before because I’m trying to get so much done. I’m tryin’ to fit it all in. I’m taking more family vacations. I’m in the studio more than I should be. I’m still on tour with Zac Brown Band right now. You know, my fingers work. My voice works. It’s been compromised, but most of the set, no one would notice. And I’m playing different things on stage, but they still make sense.
At this point, John is remaining optimistic that his ALS does not speed up. He wants to keep doing what he loves and enjoying his family and work.
5 Years In
It’s been almost five years since John Driskell Hopkins was diagnosed with ALS. Although scary, he is not stopping, as the Zac Brown Band bassist knows it’s essential to never give up. Fans have done nothing but cheer John on during this journey:
- A great guy with top shelf talent! We all wish you the best and a long life!
- You are an inspiration HOPS! Proud Zamily member here! Praying for you and your family.
- God Bless you Hop, praying for God’s Will to be the decider, love to you and your family. I’m a father of 3 girls and feel a kinship in that brother
Did you have any idea that he was going through this, and are you a fan of the Zac Brown Band? Let us know in the comments below.