This NBC news report about Elvis and the health problems which he endured aired on August 16, 1997. This will explain to many why Elvis did "retire", in part, due to health issues in 1977.
In this compassionate interview with Dr.Nichopoulos (who was Elvis's personal physician) and another Memphis physician, the state of Elvis's health prior to August 16, 1977 is discussed. The doctors explain the condition of Elvis's health as well as his need for pain medication. One of the doctors shows so much compassion for Elvis when he explains the excruciating pain Elvis was in and that he "still went out there to be Elvis for you. That's pretty special."
The back pain continued after 1977...thus the need for a doctor's care.
Of course, I do not agree with the author who declares that it was a massive heart attack.
I DO NOT AGREE WITH NOR APPROVE OF THE REMARKS WHICH TOM BROKAW MADE DURING HIS INTRODUCTION, ETC. BUT I FEEL THE REMARKS MADE BY DR. NICK AND THE OTHER MEMPHIS PHYSICIAN ARE WORTHY OF BEING
LISTENED TO SO THAT ONE MAY HAVE A FULL UNDERSTANDING OF HOW ILL ELVIS WAS IN 1977.