Photo by Dino Perrucci

Saxophonist and composer James Casey announced through social media he will be undergoing chemotherapy as a preventative measure after an emergency surgery he had to remove a tumor blocking his colon a little over a month ago.

Casey wrote on Facebook:

Under normal circumstances (as private as I am) I would have kept this to family and very close friends until it was over. However, I felt I needed to say something publicly for 2 reasons:

1) I am entirely too young and healthy to have colon cancer and yet I do. It’s the same thing that took out Chadwick Bozeman and I’m definitely younger than he was. Everyone should get tested, but especially if you are a Black Man. We are 40% more likely to get this particular type of cancer…so much so that being African American is considered a warning sign for it. If you’re 35+ please consider getting checked, and make sure to pay attention to your digestive health.

2) I won’t be able to do the TAB tour that starts this weekend. I’m extremely disappointed, but my good friend and amazing saxophonist Cheme (@cochemea) will be there in my place as I recover.

He reiterated that the treatment is a preventative measure and that doctors believe his prognosis is great. Casey also thanked fans in advance for their “prayers, thoughts, vibes and whatever else you’re trying to send” to help him get better. He also asked people to respect his family’s and his own privacy, though he plans to give updates on his condition when he feels able.

James Casey is a member of the Trey Anastasio Band and recently participated in Bill Kreutzmann’s Grateful Mahalo Livestream in Hawaii.

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