Of Mice & Men vocalist Austin Carlile has announced he’s leaving the band, due to continuously debilitating health problems with Marfan’s Syndrome. Read the link below to read a statement from Carlile himself.
Editor’s note:
As someone who’s followed Austin through various projects, his work ethic and will to continue is awfully impressive. To imagine going through the ailments he is and still play music? That’s to be admired and respected. He’s been an “inspiration” and “dedication” to many across the world.
July 5th, 2016 Austin was baptized and that was definitely a special moment for a musician who’s lived a rough life thus far. He states “This past Sunday I was finally baptized, after taking 28 years to realize God’s work playing out in my life and that I had to get out of the middle of the road and fully follow Him. Trying to do things on my way completely left me stranded.” I personally believe that this marker turned him into a different person. Ever since he’s drifted away slowly from ‘Of Mice & Men’, it seems as if his faith only becomes stronger. One can clearly see that it’s apparent through each social media post (Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat). He’s much more open about his thoughts and views which is absolutely inspiring. For someone to have lost their mother at a young age, getting sports taken away from him, and then this, it’s incredible to think that his heart still grabs onto Christ through it all.
As a Christian, I truly pray that God is only getting started with Austin. I’m fully confident that this is no where’s near the end. It’s unusual because sometimes God does this to us in life; take something so precious away just to show us something even more amazing. It’s unfortunate to think that we won’t be seeing him with the rest of the guys; although, he’s still writing and resting which means anything is possible. Recovery is essential at this time especially how vital the damage could’ve been if he’d continue.
I hope Austin’s story resonates with people that are struggling in any facet of life. Whatever you struggle with, if Austin can perform despite debilitating effects, you can overcome anything thrown at you.