Bill Ward Shares Health Update, Says He's Using a Wheelchair for Longer Distances

*Bill Ward, Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath appear at a press conference at the Whisky a Go Go on November 11, 2011 in West Hollywood, California. (Kevin Winter/Getty Images)*

Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward has shared an update on his health, explaining that he has begun using a wheelchair for longer distances at public events.

In a Facebook post published Thursday, the 78-year-old musician wrote:

"I'm announcing today somewhat sadly but nonetheless truthfully, that I've reached a place where publicly more and more I need to use a wheelchair, mostly in airports, or public events."

Ward emphasized that he is still able to walk but has limitations.

"I can still walk, let there be no doubt. But I can't walk very far without needing to rest, meaning I need to sit down."

He also reassured fans that he remains active as a musician.

"I'm still a drummer" and "I can still play pretty good for 78 years old."

Ward added:

"My talents and ambitions, and my unyielding need to be artful, and to play drums, is still as strong as it was so many years ago now. I'm just saying if you see me in a wheelchair, I'm just catching a ride, I'm not in retirement or ill or giving up, or any of those thoughts that ignite when we see people in wheelchairs. I'm making myself public and transparent about my new transport, and letting you know I'm OK."

He concluded his message by telling fans:

"Much love to you all and I'll keep rocking until I'm dead."

Ward reunited with Black Sabbath bandmates Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, and Geezer Butler in 2025 for the Back to the Beginning concert, which marked the final live performance by the band's original lineup. Ozzy Osbourne died just over two weeks later at the age of 76.

Content for this summary was derived from original reporting by ABC Audio, as featured on 105.7 The Point