John Prine’s Wife Clarifies Statement: “Stable” Is Not The Same As “Improving”

In a statement released to his official social media accounts on Sunday (March 29), Prine’s family revealed to his fans that he suddenly came down with COVID-19 symptoms and was hospitalized on Thursday (March 26).

The 73-year-old singer was intubated Saturday (March 28) and his situation is being described as “critical.”

The family said, “This is hard news for us to share. But so many of you have loved and support John over the years. We wanted to let you know, and give you the chance to send on more of that love and support now. And know that we love you, and John loves you.”

Shortly after this statement was shared to all his social media channels, Prine’s wife Fiona – who revealed on March 17 that she tested positive for the virus –  posted the same one to her Instagram and wrote, “Our beloved John. I am scared and sad and I am hopeful.”

In addition to being older, John battled cancer in 1998 and again in 2003, placing him at even greater risk.

On Monday (March 30) morning, Fiona took to Twitter to update fans on her husband’s condition. In her tweet, it seemed like she had good news to share. She started off revealing she had recovered from COVID-19 and described John’s condition as now being stable.

“We are humbled by the outpouring of love for me and John and our precious family. He is stabile [sic],” she wrote.

Many outlets began reporting on the update to John’s condition, so Fiona took to Twitter once again to clear the air. She wanted everyone to know that just because John is “stable” doesn’t mean he’s “improving.”

“I need to clarify what I mean by ‘John is stable’. That is not the same as improving,” she wrote. “There is no cure for Covid-19. He needs our prayers and love – as do the thousands of others who are critically ill.”

We’ll continue to pray for John’s recovery and send our love and prayers to Fiona as well.