Paul Hudson, aka H.R., legendary frontman for the equally legendary DC punk band and pioneers of hardcore punk, Bad Brains, revealed that he is scheduled to undergo brain surgery this month on the 21st.
The frontman first disclosed his diagnosis of a rare and particularly painful neurobiological disorder called SUNCT, or more terrifyingly nicknamed the “Suicide Syndrome,” early last year. The disorder received such a nickname for its incredibly painful and severe cluster headaches that appear with little to no warning, with pain so severe that it can disrupt daily life entirely.
“[My wife] took me to the hospital so I would learn about what was going on in my head, because I was experiencing bad headaches at the time,” H.R. said. “And the doctor came to me and he said we’re going to have a surgery.”
The surgery comes after nearly a year of dealing with the severe and crippling headaches. On a GoFundMe page to help cover medical expenses, H.R.’s wife, Lori, provided some insight into just how much the headaches have affected the singer.
“The headaches come randomly, with no warning, at all hours of the day and night,” Lori wrote on the fundraiser page. “They are much worse at night. The intensity of the nighttime headaches is so great that he yells, cries out, groans, and sobs—repeatedly, every few minutes, for most of the night. He can’t work. He has no quality of life.”
The surgery will hopefully provide significant relief to the pain, after nearly a year of trying to minimize the severity with “a cocktail of pharmaceuticals,” as well as holistic treatments. “I’ve been dealing with spirulina, wheatgrass, goldenseal and Vitamin A, D and C,” H.R. said. “I did experience some improvement with these.”
Despite the severe pain and severity of the disorder, H.R.’s spirits appear to be high as he faces surgery. His doctor, though unnamed, is experienced with this disorder and the surgery to treat it, as he has performed the same surgery over 200 times.
UPDATE: Good news Bad Brains fans! H.R.’s family recently released a statement that the operation was a success and the man himself is currently resting and recovering. While it remains unknown if the migraines will fully subside, it’s a step in the right direction.
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