Many of you know our friend John Shaw from the Nashville music community, where he has lived and worked for more than 30 years. Whether on stage performing with John Shaw and the Rock and Roll Sideshow or behind the scenes helping artists deliver unforgettable performances, John has dedicated his life to music, hard work, and supporting those around him.
Throughout his career, John has worked with legendary artists including The Kentucky Headhunters, Terri Clark, Faith Hill, Toby Keith, The Black Crowes, Reba McEntire and, for the past 16 years, has worked as a guitar tech for Brooks and Dunn.
Four years ago, John was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, uveitis, and nerve damage—conditions that have brought significant pain and challenges into his life. Recently, doctors discovered an aggressive bladder tumor, and John is now preparing for a Transurethral Resection Bladder procedure. This will be followed by ongoing treatments and monitoring as he faces yet another serious medical battle. John’s care now involves a team of specialists, including a rheumatologist, urologist, internal medicine physician, oncologist, ophthalmologist, dermatologist, his primary care doctor, and ongoing physical therapy. The appointments, treatments, procedures, medications, follow-up care, and travel required to coordinate this level of care have become overwhelming both physically and financially.
Like many musicians and crew members in the entertainment industry, John has spent his career working as an independent contractor. Without the safety net of employer-provided health insurance or paid sick leave, medical bills continue to pile up. John has already made heartbreaking sacrifices to try to cover expenses, including selling his beloved old Fender Stratocaster guitar and even his very first car—a 1965 Mustang Fastback.
If you know John, you know asking for help does not come naturally to him. He hoped to handle this latest diagnosis quietly with only a small circle of support, but those who love him encouraged him to let the wider community show up for him the same way he has shown up for so many others. John is deeply committed to fighting this disease and continuing forward with strength and determination. But no one should have to face a medical crisis while carrying the crushing weight of financial stress alone.
Every donation will go directly toward John’s medical bills, treatments, and living expenses during this incredibly difficult time. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping John in your thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for supporting a man who has spent decades helping others shine, making music and creating lasting friendships.
Throughout his career, John has worked with legendary artists including The Kentucky Headhunters, Terri Clark, Faith Hill, Toby Keith, The Black Crowes, Reba McEntire and, for the past 16 years, has worked as a guitar tech for Brooks and Dunn.
Four years ago, John was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, uveitis, and nerve damage—conditions that have brought significant pain and challenges into his life. Recently, doctors discovered an aggressive bladder tumor, and John is now preparing for a Transurethral Resection Bladder procedure. This will be followed by ongoing treatments and monitoring as he faces yet another serious medical battle. John’s care now involves a team of specialists, including a rheumatologist, urologist, internal medicine physician, oncologist, ophthalmologist, dermatologist, his primary care doctor, and ongoing physical therapy. The appointments, treatments, procedures, medications, follow-up care, and travel required to coordinate this level of care have become overwhelming both physically and financially.
Like many musicians and crew members in the entertainment industry, John has spent his career working as an independent contractor. Without the safety net of employer-provided health insurance or paid sick leave, medical bills continue to pile up. John has already made heartbreaking sacrifices to try to cover expenses, including selling his beloved old Fender Stratocaster guitar and even his very first car—a 1965 Mustang Fastback.
If you know John, you know asking for help does not come naturally to him. He hoped to handle this latest diagnosis quietly with only a small circle of support, but those who love him encouraged him to let the wider community show up for him the same way he has shown up for so many others. John is deeply committed to fighting this disease and continuing forward with strength and determination. But no one should have to face a medical crisis while carrying the crushing weight of financial stress alone.
Every donation will go directly toward John’s medical bills, treatments, and living expenses during this incredibly difficult time. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping John in your thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for supporting a man who has spent decades helping others shine, making music and creating lasting friendships.