Bluegrass songwriter and performer Ray Edwards has shared the news that he is undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.
Fortunately, tests show that the cancer is isolated in one side of his prostate, and that it is a small and very slow-growing tumor. As soon as results come in from a new set of tests, he expects to start radiation therapy.
As is so common these days with early detection, a complete recovery is expected.
While Ray welcomes all the prayers and positive vibes that can be sent his way, he wants everyone to know that he feeling well, and staying active in all his musical pursuits. He’s been filling in on banjo with The Bluegrass Brothers, as brother Robert Dowdy has been staying home to care for he and Victor’s mother who is in ill health following the recent death of their father. Marcus Dowdy was the rock of the family, responsible for raising two generations of grassers, and his passing in mid-April left a huge void in all of their hearts.
Edwards also played banjo on Travers Chandler’s upcoming CD, Archaic, due on Patuxent Records next month. He has been playing banjo with Travers on live shows as well.
He and his songwriting partner Terry Foust have new songs to be included on projects by Lou Reid & Carolina and Mike Bentley & Cumberland Gap Connection, along with cuts written with Larry Joe Cox and Matt Dylan on those same two records.
Ray is also excited about a song he has on hold with Marty Raybon, written with Sharlene Hazelwood, slated for Marty’s next CD.
Let’s all hope to hear soon that this cancer is just a blip in the rear view mirror.
