Neil Diamond has thanked fans for their well wishes following his diagnosis with Parkinson's Disease.
On Tuesday, the 77-year-old Sweet Caroline singer announced he was retiring from touring following a recent diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.
Diamond's wife and manager, Katie, who he married in 2012, took to social media to thank fans for donating ticket refunds to Parkinson's research.
Katie tweeted: ''Wow, I've received a bunch of messages from people in Aus & NZ who are donating their ticket refunds to good causes: Parkinson's research, animal rescue groups, fire victim funds, etc.
''My heart is so full of joy to see this silver lining. Faith in humanity = restored. Thank you!''
Neil then replied: ''This makes me smile. Thank you. Thank you to everyone for your outpouring of love and support. It makes a difference.''
This makes me smile. Thank you. Thank you to everyone for your outpouring of love and support. It makes a difference. https://t.co/TLZAa69q1B
— Neil Diamond (@NeilDiamond) January 23, 2018
Diamond released the news of his illness in a statement, saying he had made the decision with "great reluctance and disappointment".
"It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring," he said in a statement on his website.
"I have been so honoured to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years.
"My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.
"I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come.
"My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been 'so good, so good, so good' thanks to you."
Diamond was due to embark on the third leg of his 50th anniversary tour in Australia and New Zealand in March.The gigs followed concerts in Europe, including the UK and Ireland, and the US in 2017.
