Kerry Livgren Suffers ‘Massive Stroke’

Kerry Livgren, one of the driving forces behind the classic rock group Kansas during its peak of popularity, has suffered a massive stroke on Tuesday and underwent surgery to remove a blood clot from his brain. Livgren had recently performed with Kansas at the Missouri State Fair.

Update: Although news reports at the time indicated that Livgren had performed at the Missouri State Fair, a reader has informed me that he had attended the fair, and Livgren did not perform there.

Livgren reportedly came through the surgery well and was listed in serious but stable condition thereafter.

Recent reports on his condition are encouraging, and the 59-year-old rocker is said to be showing very positive signs of recovery. Family members were not open about the details of Livgren’s conditions, but they stressed that there are very positive signs, adding that “…it’s going to take time, but it’s encouraging.”

There are reports that Livgren has already begun working with a speech therapist, which certainly sounds like he has made excellent progress and that his condition is no longer considered serious.

Personally, Kansas has been a favorite of mine since the 1970’s and were an early influence that fueled my appreciation for other progressive rock groups at the time such as Rush and Yes.

The reports of Livgren’s progress since he was first hospitalized are certainly encouraging, and it is likely that a large number of fans are praying for his recovery or at least keeping Kerry Livgren and his family in their thoughts.