Sharon Summerall and her husband, Don Henley, have been together for over two decades, defying the odds and staying strong amidst the challenges they have faced. This article explores Sharon Summerall’s background, her meeting with Don Henley, their enduring marriage, their children, and her battle with multiple sclerosis.
About Sharon Summerall: Early Life and Modeling Career
Sharon Summerall was born in Texas, USA, and not much is known about her childhood and early education. She spent her early days in her birthplace, and her father worked as a farmworker. In the early 1980s, Summerall began her modeling career and quickly gained success. She worked with prestigious modeling outfits such as Eva models and Elite, paving the way for a promising career.
Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis and Career Pause
Unfortunately, tragedy struck in the early ’90s when Summerall was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. This autoimmune disease posed significant challenges and forced her to put her modeling career on hold. Summerall made the difficult decision to focus on her health and well-being, stepping away from the limelight. Throughout the years, she has primarily been known as a supportive wife to Don Henley and has played a vital role in his successful musical career.
How She Met Her Husband
Sharon Summerall and Don Henley crossed paths during a crucial time in both their lives. In 1994, Summerall received her diagnosis, which halted her career and put her life prospects on hold. Meanwhile, Don Henley, a renowned musician, had faced his own share of heartbreaks and setbacks. Their meeting was more than just a connection; it was a life-defining moment for both of them.
Henley’s Past Relationships
Before meeting Summerall, Henley had experienced failed relationships with several high-profile women, including Lois Chiles, Loree Rodkin, and Stevie Nicks. His journey to find true love was marked by heartbreak and disappointments. However, everything changed when he found Sharon Summerall in 1993.
Love and Marriage
The exact circumstances of their meeting are unclear, but it is likely that the couple met at a gathering, given their status as celebrities at the time. For Henley, it was love at first sight. After dating for two years, they took their relationship to the next level with an engagement. They exchanged vows on May 20, 1995, in a star-studded ceremony attended by notable names in the music industry. Henley dedicated the song “Everything Is Different Now” from his 2000 album, “Inside Job,” to his wife Sharon Summerall.
How Long Sharon Summerall Has Been Married to Don Henley
As of 2025, Sharon Summerall and Don Henley will have been married for almost thirty years. Their long-lasting marriage is a testament to their commitment to each other and their ability to navigate through challenges. While Summerall takes on the role of a homemaker, Henley continues to make waves in the music industry, earning substantial rewards. The couple credits their mutual understanding, forgiveness, and resilience for their enduring marriage.
Children Of Sharon Summerall and Don Henley
Sharon Summerall and Don Henley have three children together. Their oldest daughter, Annabel, was born on December 17, 1995. They later welcomed another daughter, Julia, and a son, Will, into their family. Henley and Summerall decided to prioritize their children’s upbringing and chose to move away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to Dallas, Texas. They wanted their children to have a normal childhood, attending a local elementary school and engaging in extracurricular activities. Henley even served on the school board at the time, emphasizing the importance of education and well-rounded development.
Sharon Summerall’s Battle with Multiple Sclerosis
In the early 1990s, Sharon Summerall received her life-altering diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, a chronic illness that affects the central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis disrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and the body. The cause of the disease is still unknown, but research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Summerall has been managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis for the past two decades. While there is no known cure, treatments are available to alleviate symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks. Summerall experiences good weeks, bad weeks, and challenging weeks, but with the support of her family, she continues to persevere.
Conclusion
Sharon Summerall’s journey with Don Henley is one of love, resilience, and mutual support. Despite the challenges they have faced individually and as a couple, they have managed to build a strong and enduring marriage. Their children are their pride and joy, and they prioritize providing them with a normal upbringing away from the spotlight. Sharon Summerall’s battle with multiple sclerosis serves as an inspiration, as she continues to navigate life with grace and determination. Their story is a testament to the power of love and commitment in the face of adversity.
