Celebrated musician Tony Christie spoke candidly about supporting his wife Sue through her “painful” health struggles, while also revealing she has been “his rock” during his battle with dementia.
The singer, 82, has once again partnered up with Music for Dementia this Christmas for a poignant new ad inspired by John Lewis called ‘Give the Music Back’, which demonstrates how music can change the lives of families impacted by dementia.
In an exclusive interview, Tony discussed his own struggles with dementia and explained how he and his wife Sue support each other through their illnesses.
Tony was diagnosed with dementia in January 2023, while Sue has been battling fibromyalgia for several years.
According to the NHS, fibromyalgia is “a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body”, with symptoms including increased sensitivity to pain, muscle stiffness and difficulty sleeping.
Explaining how he and Sue have always been there for each other, Tony said: “Sue’s been dealing with fibromyalgia for years, and just as she’s been there for me, I’m there for her.
“We support each other through the difficult days. Sometimes the roles reverse – where she’s helping me manage my dementia, and other times I’m helping her manage her fibromyalgia.
“The pain can be terrible some days. It’s a terrible condition, and I wish there was more that I can do to help.”
When asked about the secret to a successful marriage, he said of his wife of over 50 years: “Sue is absolutely my rock. We met in 1968 at a nightclub where I was performing in Sheffield.
“I took one look at her and told my bass player, Mike, ‘That’s the girl I’m going to marry.’ He thought I was mad, but I knew.
“The secret? Humour. We laugh together constantly. That’s the foundation of everything. We’ve been through so much together, and we face the dementia diagnosis the same way we face everything: together, with humour and love.
“Sue noticed the signs before I did and encouraged me to see a doctor. She’s the one who keeps me grounded, keeps me organised. But most importantly, we genuinely like each other. After nearly 60 years together, that’s what matters.”
Tony also reflected on his positive outlook in spite of his health struggles, saying: “I’ve been blessed. God gave me a voice and a gift for music, and I’ve been able to use that my whole life. That’s been the foundation of everything – doing what I love, every single day.
“The key to happiness? Family, music and not taking yourself too seriously. I don’t dwell on what I can’t do anymore – I focus on what I can. I can still sing. I can still perform.
“I can still connect with people. I have a wife I adore, children and grandchildren I’m proud of, and fans who’ve stuck with me for over 60 years. That’s a life well-lived.”
Tony also explained how music has played a major role in fighting his dementia symptoms, enthusing: “I sing every day, it makes me feel alive. I’m lucky that my voice hasn’t changed at all since my diagnosis. In fact, some people say it’s got better as I’ve got older!
“I’m so fortunate to still be performing and touring. The doctor told me I’m very lucky to be in the music business because music is one of the best things for dementia. It holds it back.”
Music for Dementia’s new Christmas advert, Give the Music Back, is available to watch on YouTube.
