Acclaimed author Cheryl Strayed has announced that she will be stepping back from her public engagements to care for her husband, Brian Lindstrom, who has been diagnosed with a “serious, fatal illness.” The 57-year-old writer shared the heartbreaking news via an Instagram post on Thursday, stating that her priority at this time is to be with her family.
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In her message, Strayed revealed the impact of Lindstrom’s diagnosis on her schedule, leading her to cancel a number of scheduled appearances, including a writing workshop at Kripalu and a talk at Hunter College. “My beloved husband Brian has been diagnosed with a serious, fatal illness and for that reason I had to cancel my writing workshop at Kripalu and also my appearance at Hunter College this week,” she explained.
Strayed expressed her regret to those who had planned to attend her events, adding, “I simply cannot do anything but be with my family right now and see to our broken hearts.” She requested that her followers keep them in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
The author, known for her memoir “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail,” along with works such as “Torch” and “Tiny Beautiful Things,” acknowledged an emotional dissonance in her recent social media posts. Strayed pointed out that while she has shared clips from her podcast, “Mind Over Mountain,” these were pre-recorded and reflect a happier time in her life. “Those interviews, which I loved doing, were recorded previously, in easier, happier times,” she noted.
Strayed and Lindstrom, a filmmaker noted for his documentaries including “Alien Boy: The Life and Death of James Chasse” and “Lost Angel: The Genius of Judee Sill,” have been together since 1995. The couple have two adult children, Bobbi Strayed Lindstrom and Carver Strayed Lindstrom, and have collaborated on various creative projects, including co-directing the documentary “We Are Forbidden” in 2019.
In a touching reflection on their relationship shared in a 2022 Facebook post, Strayed reminisced about the moment they first met. She wrote, “I met a man named Brian Lindstrom last night. I don’t know who he is, but I think he’ll be someone to me.” This chance encounter laid the foundation for a deep and enduring partnership, marking half of Strayed’s lifetime spent with Lindstrom.
The author’s latest literary work, “Tiny Beautiful Things,” was transformed into a Hulu series in 2023, featuring Kathryn Hahn in the lead role. Meanwhile, her memoir “Wild” was adapted into a critically acclaimed film in 2014, with Reese Witherspoon portraying Strayed. These accomplishments, however, now feel overshadowed by the personal trials she is facing.
As Strayed navigates this difficult period, she is evidently focused on her family’s well-being. Her public statement reflects the heart-wrenching reality facing many families grappling with serious illness, underscoring the importance of love, support, and togetherness during such times.
Strayed’s literary contributions and her openness about her life’s challenges have resonated with readers around the world. Now, as she puts her family first, many fans and followers are rallying to support her and Lindstrom, sending thoughts and prayers as they face this uncertain journey ahead.