Ossama Al Sarraf, one half of the Grammy-nominated duo Sultan + Shepard, has shared publicly for the first time that he lives with pulmonary fibrosis, a lung condition that now shapes how he performs.
The diagnosis and its impact
In an Instagram post this week, Al Sarraf explained that he was diagnosed with the condition several years ago. Pulmonary fibrosis causes scarring in the lungs and prevents them from fully expanding, leading to shortness of breath. While his everyday life remains largely unchanged, he now requires supplemental oxygen during high-energy activities such as working out or performing, and sometimes in cities at higher altitudes.
The post included a photo of the DJ wearing a nasal cannula. Al Sarraf described spending years in denial after the initial diagnosis, hoping the condition might resolve on its own. He acknowledged that conversations around disability and health can feel emotionally exhausting and difficult to navigate, but said he recently realized the importance of being open about his experience.
Moving forward with performances
Al Sarraf and his co-producer Ned Shepard have remained active, most recently teaming up with Shallou on the single Twilight in early May. The duo, a longtime favorite of Lane 8's This Never Happened label, has tour dates ahead and Al Sarraf made clear he intends to keep that pace.
He reassured fans that if they see him wearing a cannula, he is okay—it simply allows him to continue performing the way he always has, something that brings him joy. Sultan + Shepard's upcoming tour dates remain on schedule.
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