In 2003, fans of Boyz II Men were shocked to learn that bass vocalist Michael McCary was no longer part of the group (via the CBC). At the time, many assumed that the cause of his departure was typical band drama. However, the actual cause was kept a secret until 2016. That year, McCary finally shared the truth and why he was no longer a part of the group that had made him a famous award-winning singer. He sat down for an interview on the show "Iyanla: Fix My Life" and shared that he was living with multiple sclerosis, per Billboard.
According to Medical News Today, the condition affects the central nervous system and the brain. Symptoms of the illness can include pain, paralysis, and muscle weakness. The CBC reports that McCary thought that the cause of his recurring back spasms was scoliosis. Unfortunately, McCary didn't realize that he was actually dealing with the early symptoms of multiple sclerosis. After his diagnosis, BET states that doctors explained to him that the disorder had the ability to leave him paralyzed.
Although his condition was affecting his ability to make appearances with Boyz II Men, he kept his medical condition to himself (per the CBC). In the televised interview on "Iyanla: Fix My Life," McCary shared that leaving the group affected his relationship with his former bandmates (via Oprah). He stated that he has feelings of "betrayal" and said that he does not speak to any of the three remaining members.
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