There are people in this world who leave a great impression on everyone they meet, everywhere they go, no matter the situation. That is Jeff Brodnax.

His life has been an amazing journey of music, love, and friendship. I’ve known Jeff for 40 of our 60 years, and in that time he has always been one of the most talented, kind, and dedicated people I’ve ever met.

I had the great fortune to play in the band Egypt with Jeff for many years, and I witnessed his passion for music, his love for family, and the brotherhood that comes from near-constant touring. He was our frontman, and what a great leader he was; always upbeat and ready to attack any stage with his dynamic vocal ability and fierce punk-rock attitude. He has brought that amazing energy with him throughout all of his musical adventures. From playing clubs in the Norfolk, VA underground scene to recording and touring the world with the groundbreaking NYC rock band 24-7 Spyz, Jeff was always “all in.” A true rock-and-roll soldier who has logged literally millions of miles on the road, always bringing his positive mental attitude wherever he went.

In spite of these thoughtful and sincere sentiments, sometimes bad things happen to good people.

Just one week ago, Jeff was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.

This news has hit all of us who respect and love Jeff like a ton of bricks—none more than his beautiful wife Ann. Having heard his voice over the phone, I will tell you: this diagnosis is NOT a death sentence, and Jeff is not giving up! Like the soldier we all know him to be, Jeff is going to fight with every ounce of strength he has.

Having been through a major medical emergency/condition myself, I can honestly say no matter how well someone might think they are prepared, there’s no way to simply batten down the hatches and weather the storm. Sometimes you just have to say, “I need help with this.” Well, Jeff needs our help—ALL OF US!

It’s time for all of us to show Jeff how much energy and love he’s given us over the years and what it has meant to us by giving back. This GoFundMe campaign will serve as the vehicle to help Jeff and his family stay afloat in the difficult battle ahead. Because of this severe diagnosis, Jeff is unable to work. Medical bills, prescription costs, and household expenses will surely tip the scales for the Brodnax family in the coming months.

The best thing any of us can do is show Jeff how much we care by making a donation through this campaign page and writing Jeff a message of encouragement, strength, and solidarity on the donation feed. I know he will read each and every one of them, and his gratitude will be joyous and overflowing. Every little bit counts.

Let’s make it happen, everyone!