Whoa! Did you know... Apl.de.Ap, aka Allan Pineda Lindo, Jr., aka the Filipino American guy in the Black Eyed Peas, recently revealed to People Magazine that he is legally blind. He was diagnosed with the rare genetic eye disorder nystagmus, which involuntarily makes the eye move, and isn't able to fully see: Black Eyed Peas Rapper Apl.de.Ap Reveals He is Legally Blind.
The 36-year-old rapper, born Allan Pineda Lindo, Jr., recently revealed to People Magazine that he is legally blind and was diagnosed with the rare disease nystagmus, a challenging obstacle which he claims to have overcome.So he's not completely blind, but suffers from blurry vision and severe nearsightedness because of the condition. At the very least, that's pretty inconvenient for someone who has to balance a hit recording career and an intense touring schedule -- which he's done.
The condition, which involuntarily makes the eye move, has been as difficult as one would expect given the group's demanding physical schedule, but apl claims he's figured out a way to manage the affliction. "I doubted myself for a long time... I'm comfortable not using my vision. I weave around my problems," explained the Filipino entertainer.
Say what you will about Black Eyed Peas' music (I'm not a huge fan myself), but I'd say that's worthy of some props. Next month, you'll see him performing with BEP during the halftime show at Super Bowl XLV. More here: Black Eyed Peas Star Has Rare Eye Disorder.