Support Jarrod Dickenson's Battle Against Cancer

Well, friends, sometimes life has its own set of plans, and they don't always line up with the ones we make for ourselves. This seems to be one of those times. I was recently diagnosed with cancer - Stage 3 rectal cancer, to be precise. The good news is my doctors seem confident that this is something we can beat, though it will be a lengthy process with several months of chemotherapy, followed by more chemo and radiation, and ultimately a surgery. While I can't say that I'm particularly looking forward to the aforementioned agenda, we're staying positive over here, and I have every intention of sending this cancer packing, and moving on with life.

This year is undoubtedly going to be a trying one physically, emotionally and financially, but as I said before, I have every intention of getting to the other side of this thing. I'm also going to endeavor to be very open about the battle ahead with regular updates as and when I'm able, if for no other reason than to hopefully convince some of you to go get yourselves checked out as well!

It has been suggested by a few people that we set up a GoFundMe page. This is something that I've gone back and forth on, because if I'm honest, it makes me very uncomfortable, and I don't like the idea of asking anyone for money. That said, I also can't deny the fact that we're going to have some pretty hefty bills this year (you've gotta love the American healthcare system), and my ability to work has been pretty severely hindered by this news. I had also planned on trying to make a new record this year between tours. Since being on the road is no longer on the cards, if my body is up to the task and we can swing it, I may try to record some new music between chemo treatments. The distraction would surely do me good, and maybe we can create something beautiful in the midst of some pretty serious unpleasantness. So, all that to say, if you are in a position and feel so inclined to contribute to any of those things, I won't turn it down and I'd be very grateful... I also want to make it clear that I would never expect or presume that I am entitled to a penny from any of you. (Though, as my grandfather used to say, "a few kind words" are surely welcome)

As I said, I'll do my best to keep you all informed and up to speed on things. In the meantime, thanks for your support, your thoughts and your prayers. I truly appreciate them.