We often place musicians on a pedestal. They create moments that lift us, carry us, and make everything feel lighter. It’s easy to forget that behind all of that, they’re human, navigating life in ways we don’t always see. And when they choose to open up, especially about something deeply personal, it shifts everything. It makes it real. Ossama, one half of Sultan + Shepard, took to Instagram today to share that he has been living with pulmonary fibrosis for the past few years.

The condition causes scarring in the lungs, making it harder for them to fully expand. Despite that, his day-to-day hasn’t changed much. He continues to show up, with a bit of extra support—using supplemental oxygen during more intense moments like performing or working out, and taking added care in higher-altitude cities.

It’s hard to imagine what goes through your mind when you receive a diagnosis like that. Whether it’s something small or something life-altering, that moment changes you. Ossama shared that denial was part of his initial reaction, and that feels human in every sense. And then there’s that quiet hope you carry… the idea that maybe one day, things will reset – a cure, a breakthrough, a way back to what once felt normal. He also spoke about how emotionally heavy conversations around health and disability can be. They aren’t easy to have, and they’re even harder to live through. But choosing to open up wasn’t just about telling his story. It was about opening a door for others, so anyone going through something similar feels a little less isolated, a little less afraid. A reminder that it’s okay to speak up, to share, and to let people in.

Ossama isn’t stepping away from the music. He’s still going to be out there touring, you might just see him taking care of himself along the way, sometimes with a cannula. And more than anything, it’s reassuring. He’s still doing what he loves, still showing up, just with a new layer of strength most of us can’t even begin to comprehend.

You can still catch Sultan + Shepard on the road this summer, including a stop in Vancouver. They then head to Colorado on June 13 for Lane 8’s TNH 10 celebrations. From there, they go back-to-back withLane 8in Dallas and New York City. Each stop brings that signature This Never Happened energy fans know and love. If you’ve experienced their sets, you know it’s always more than just a show. You can explore their full tour schedule here. More than anything, we’re wishing Ossama strength and good health. Our team at EDMTunes can’t wait to be back on the dancefloor, singing and sharing those moments again.