Flea
Michael Balzary, commonly known by his stage name Flea, was born in 1962 in Melbourne, Australia. He moved to New York with his parents when he was five. Balzary is better known as the bassist from the band Red Hot Chili Peppers. Apart from his career as musician and songwriter, Balzary is also a professional actor.[1]
Illness
In "1993, Flea was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome and was ordered to rest for a year."[1]
"Flea is suffering from “chronic fatigue syndrome” as the result of heavy touring, although the band have now been off the road for roughly five months."[2]
"The Warners spokesperson commented: “The doctor has said that he (Flea) can’t go on the road. The disease causes extreme tiredness. Some mornings you can’t pick up a cup, let alone a guitar.”"[2]
The Chilli ME Challenge
The Chilli ME Challenge, an innovative fundraising project for ME research, was started by fans of the band who likewise had ME in honor of Flea with the hopes of bringing awareness and funds to the illness.[3]
