The Decemberists accordion and keyboard player Jenny Conlee has announced at the band’s website that she is suffering from breast cancer.
The Decemberists accordion and keyboard player Jenny Conlee has announced at the band’s website that she is suffering from breast cancer.
In a letter to fans she writes, “I am very sorry to say that I will be missing a few shows coming up as I go through treatment for breast cancer. It has been great to be on tour these past few weeks. The band and crew are like family to me and have been incredibly supportive and understanding. To be making music with everyone and seeing the fans has helped me to feel more positive and keep my mind off of my diagnosis. But, alas, as the tour winds down, it is time for me to get back to reality. I will try to get into surgery as soon as I can after we return from this leg of the tour so I can begin my recovery. There are still a few unknowns out there concerning my cancer, but I am thinking positive and hope to be back on the road soon. Thanks for all of your support! See you soon!”
The good news is that the band says that Jenny caught it early and expects a full recovery.
She has stood down from the band while she undergoes treatment. She is expected to miss all nine shows for The Decemberists in May and June.
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