Steve Lawrence, from pop duo Steve and Eydie, has Alzheimer's

Lawrence, 83, issued a statement through the intermediary of his journalist, Howard Bragman, stating that he had decided to make his medical news public because rumors were already circulating.

"A number of rumors and press have come to me and I think it's important that I tell my own truth: I've been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, and it's at an early stage, "said his release.

He said that he was being treated with drugs by "some of the best doctors in the field", which helped slow the process of the disease. He said that he lived his life, went out in public and tried to spend as much time as possible with his family and friends while he still could.

"I want my dear fans to know that despite this bittersweet moment, what I do not want, it's pity or sympathy." I lived and I live a wonderful life and happy, filled with love, support and incredible moments, "he said. I said.

"With my beloved Eydie, I have had one of the greatest loves of all time, my career has always been a source of joy and accomplishment for me, and you, my fans, have shown a love and immeasurable support imagined. "

He asked for prayers and wishes, and implored the fans to "find joy every day because what I feel is gratitude, love and love. hope – nothing more, nothing less, and hope you can find the same thing ".

Lawrence and Gorme, who died in Las Vegas after a brief illness in 2013 at the age of 84, began their solo acting career in the 1950s and then became a popular duo who sang duets and played humorous sketches in nightclubs and on television.

Her solo hit was Grammy nominated "Blame it on the Bossa Nova" in 1963, a catchy song evoking a craze for dance of the time. His equally huge solo success dates back to 1962 with "Go Away Little Girl", composed by Gerry Goffin and Carole King.

They met at the local TV show of Steve Allen in New York in 1953, and when the show became "Tonight Show" of the NBC channel in 1954, the young couple agreed. They married in Las Vegas in 1957 and then performed in front of an audience.

At the time of his death, Lawrence paid tribute to the love of his life.

"Eydie has been my partner on stage and in life for over 55 years," he said in a statement. "I fell in love with her as soon as I saw her and more when I heard her sing.Although my personal loss is unimaginable, the world has lost one of the greatest pop singers of all time. "