Saxophonist James Casey–a key member of Trey Anastasio Band–is currently undergoing treatment for advanced-stage colon cancer, marking a two-year battle against the relentless disease. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched in hopes of alleviating financial strain and in hopes of prioritizing his during this challenging time.

James Casey’s journey took an unexpected turn while he was in Hawaii during the pandemic, where he encountered abdominal pain while performing alongside Bill Kreutzmann at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colo. This discomfort revealed a stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis, prompting swift emergency surgery to remove a colon-obstructing tumor. Subsequent months were marked by intensive chemotherapy as he courageously battled the illness. Despite the setbacks, his determination shone through as he pushed forward, making special on-stage appearances during the summer of 2023 after a subsequent surgery in May.

James’s unwavering spirit and love of creating music propelled him forward, even in the face of adversity. His tenacity allows him to share his musical talents with audiences and his fellow musicians, be it in the studio or live. Despite Casey’s not being able to collaborate with Kreutzmann in New York City this week, his music is as vivid and warm as ever. Additionally, he advocates for collectives fighting illnesses, as seen in the short film Music As Medicine.

Donate to the GoFundMe campaign here. Read the statement that comes with the charitable endeavor below.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by James Casey (@jamescaseysax)

James Casey needs your support. As you may know, for the last two years James has been battling late-stage colon cancer. He has reached a critical point in his fight against this horrible disease that has left him unable to perform. Your donations will displace that crucial loss of income and help cover mounting medical and living expenses so that James may focus on his health and loved ones at this time.

Following an extended stay in Hawaii during the pandemic, James was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer after experiencing abdominal pain while performing with Bill Kreutzmann at Red Rocks. Soon after he sought emergency surgery to remove a tumor obstructing his colon and spent the following six months in chemotherapy, missing tours with Trey Anastasio Band and other scheduled performances. Upon completing treatments, new scans showed the cancer had progressed to stage 4.

Incredibly, and in spite of the cancer, James has pushed forward. Following another surgery in May 2023, James this summer was able to make a handful of special appearances on stage. However, his health has continued to decline and affect his ability to work as a musician. Despite his own optimism, James is unable to join Bill Kreutzmann in New York this week as planned and is currently in hospital, with expenses mounting.