Lisa McHugh Hospitalized with Sepsis, Continues to Navigate Functional Neurological Disorder

Country music star Lisa McHugh is once again facing a health battle, having been hospitalized with sepsis just days before a planned return to the stage. This latest setback adds to a challenging period for the singer, who was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) last year and has experienced ongoing health complications.

Sepsis Diagnosis and Performance Cancellation

McHugh was admitted to the hospital with sepsis, a life-threatening condition triggered by infection, and was forced to cancel her performance with Nathan Carter at The Clanree Hotel in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, on February 12, 2026 . She shared the news with fans on social media, expressing her disappointment but reassuring them that she is receiving the best possible care.

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) Diagnosis and Impact

The hospitalization comes after McHugh revealed her diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) in July 2025 . FND is a condition that affects the nervous system’s function, causing neurological symptoms like weakness, tremors, or seizures without detectable structural damage to the brain or nerves. McHugh previously experienced a period where she lost the use of her legs for two months and had to relearn to walk, initially using a Zimmer frame.

Prior to her FND diagnosis, McHugh was similarly diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia, causing severe facial pain .

The Emotional Toll on Family Life

McHugh has openly discussed the emotional toll her health struggles have taken on her family, particularly her two young children, Milo (four years old) and Hallie (18 months old) . She expressed guilt over repeatedly having to “disappear” for hospital stays, struggling to explain her absences to her son, Milo. She told fans that the hardest part of her recent hospitalization was the impact on her children.

Underlying Stressors and Contributing Factors

McHugh attributes some of her health issues to the stress and trauma experienced over the past year, including her daughter Hallie’s health scares. Hallie was hospitalized with RSV and bronchiolitis in November 2024 and January 2025 and was later diagnosed with an iron deficiency . McHugh also acknowledged the demanding lifestyle of a touring musician, with long hours, irregular sleep, and poor nutrition, as potential contributing factors.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, McHugh remains optimistic about her recovery and eventual return to the stage. She expressed gratitude for the support of her family, friends, and fans. While her New Year’s plans were delayed, she anticipates resuming her career in March .