We had reported earlier the unfortunate news regarding Phil Leadbetter, everyone’s favorite Uncle Phil, and his recent diagnosis of Hodgkins Lymphoma. Phil is fighting back with all he has, and will start chemo this week.
As Phil indicated to us when he first got the news last month, “I was an unprepared dummy with no insurance. I was a nurse for over 10 years…. think I would have known better.”
But the community has come forward to help Phil and his family with his medical expenses. A web site has been created for the Uncle Phil Fund, where his many friends in the music world – not to mention his many fans – can make whatever financial contribution their personal situation and inclination allows.
The site also includes information about the growing list of benefit concerts scheduled to raise money for this cause.
Leadbetter has been active in bluegrass music since his teens in the Knoxville, TN area. He has worked with such popular acts as JD Crowe & the New South, Wildfire, Grasstowne and The Whites. His 2005 solo album, Slide Effects, won the IBMA Instrumental Album of the Year, and he took home the Dobro Player of the Year trophy that year as well.
We urge anyone who has enjoyed Phil’s music over the years to show their appreciation by making whatever contribution you can.
You go, Unc!
