Clint Black is one of the most successful and influential country music artists of all time. He has sold over 20 million records, won numerous awards, and starred in several films and TV shows. But is he also battling a rare and debilitating illness that affects his brain development?
What is Rett Syndrome?
Rett syndrome is a genetic disorder that occurs mostly in girls and causes severe impairments in language, communication, movement, and behavior. It is caused by a mutation in the MECP2 gene on the X chromosome. The symptoms usually appear between 6 and 18 months of age, after a period of normal development. Some of the common signs of Rett syndrome are:
- Loss of speech and hand skills
- Repetitive hand movements, such as wringing, clapping, or tapping
- Breathing problems, such as hyperventilation, breath-holding, or apnea
- Seizures and abnormal EEG patterns
- Scoliosis and other skeletal abnormalities
- Growth failure and feeding difficulties
- Autism-like behaviors, such as social withdrawal, lack of eye contact, and irritability
There is no cure for Rett syndrome, but treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life of the affected individuals and their families. Some of the treatments include:
- Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help with motor skills, communication, and daily activities
- Medications to control seizures, spasticity, anxiety, and other problems
- Nutritional supplements to prevent malnutrition and osteoporosis
- Assistive devices, such as braces, splints, wheelchairs, and communication aids
- Special education and behavioral interventions to support learning and social skills
According to Rett Syndrome News, Rett syndrome affects about one in every 10,000 to 15,000 live female births worldwide. It is estimated that there are about 16,000 people with Rett syndrome in the United States.
How is Clint Black Related to Rett Syndrome?
Clint Black has a personal connection to Rett syndrome through his sister, Cortney. She was diagnosed with the disorder when she was two years old. She is now 51 years old and lives with her parents in Texas. Clint Black has been a vocal advocate for Rett syndrome awareness and research for many years. He has participated in various fundraisers and events to support the cause.
In 1995, he released a song called “The Finest Gift” with his wife Lisa Hartman Black. The song is dedicated to his sister Cortney and all the children with special needs. The lyrics express his love and admiration for his sister and her courage. He sings:
She’s a daughter down in Houston / She’s a spirit / She’s a song / She’s a part of me that’s always right / And I know she’ll always be strong / She’s a flower / She’s a lion / She can make me laugh out loud / She’s a child who dreams tomorrow / And I’m so proud / She’s my finest gift
In 2017, he had to cancel two shows due to his sister’s illness. He explained on Twitter that she had a severe respiratory infection and needed his care. He wrote:
My sister Cortney has Rett Syndrome & needs my help this week. We’re sorry to miss you but we’ll be back soon.
He also thanked his fans for their understanding and support.
Is Clint Black Ill Himself?
Despite his sister’s condition, Clint Black himself is not ill or suffering from any disease. He is healthy and active at the age of 61. He continues to make music and perform for his fans. He also enjoys spending time with his wife Lisa Hartman Black and their daughter Lily Pearl Black.
In 2020, he released his latest album Out of Sane, which features 12 new songs written or co-written by him. He also collaborated with his wife on a duet called “You Still Get To Me”. The couple celebrated their 30th anniversary in October 2021.
In 2021, he launched a new TV show called Talking in Circles with Clint Black, where he interviews fellow musicians and celebrities about their lives and careers. Some of his guests include Darius Rucker, Sara Evans, Trace Adkins, Wynonna Judd, Travis Tritt, Steve Wariner, and Phil Vassar.
He also announced a new tour called Mostly Hits & The Mrs., where he performs with his wife Lisa Hartman Black and their daughter Lily Pearl Black. The tour kicked off in November 2021 and will run until February 2022.
Clint Black is an inspiration to many people who have been touched by Rett syndrome or any other challenge in life. He shows that with love, faith, and determination, anything is possible. He is a living proof that Rett syndrome is not a death sentence, but a life sentence. He is not only a country star, but a star of hope.
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