Jason Becker hospitalised following recent health struggles

Jason Becker, who has been battling ALS for the last 30 years, has been hospitalised.

• READ MORE: Jason Becker fundraiser taps massive roster of guitar heroes, from Steve Vai to Tosin Abasi

Becker was hospitalised yesterday (8 April) after experiencing persistent shortness of breath and a rapid heart rate, announced Patricia, the guitarist’s mother. It was only a few days earlier that she revealed Becker was in a “pretty scary” condition.

“Jason is aware of, and overwhelmed by the outpouring of prayers and love coming his way,” Patricia tweeted yesterday (8 April).

“He was feeling better for a while, but the annoying shortness of breath and rapid heart rate kept coming and going. The doctor felt it was best to admit him to the hospital, which is what we are doing.”

Despite his recent health struggles, Becker was optimistic that he’d return to good health soon. “On his way [to the hospital], he said, ‘Gonna get this fixed. I love you,’” his mother wrote on Twitter. “We are all so grateful and will keep you posted when we can. Thank you with all our hearts.”

We are all so grateful and will keep you posted when we can. Thank you with all our hearts."

–Pat Becker (Jason's Mom)
-3- pic.twitter.com/0PhTL5La6F

— Jason Becker (@jasonelibecker) April 7, 2021

To aid Becker and his family, a massive online fundraising campaign has been running since March. Hosted by DragonForce guitarist Herman Li, the streaming event is happening every weekday in April and May 2021 and features an impressive ensemble of guests from Steve Vai to Tosin Abasi.

Becker was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 1991, at just 22 years old. The neuromuscular disease took away his ability to play the guitar, walk and even speak. He has since relied on the support of his parents to survive.

To make a donation to Jason Becker, click here.