Music

The Decemberists' Jenny Conlee diagnosed with breast cancer

by Nicole Villeneuve

Sad news today from the Decemberists—keyboard/accordian player Jenny Conlee has been diagnosed with breast cancer. In a mailing list newsletter that’s also been posted to their website, frontman Colin Meloy says the diagnosis was made about a month ago; he sounds hopeful in explaining that the cancer was caught early and Conlee’s prognosis is at this time is “very, very good.”

Conlee herself said the following:

“To be making music with everyone and seeing the fans has helped me to feel more positive and keep my mind off of my diagnosis. But, alas, as the tour winds down, it is time for me to get back to reality. I will try to get into surgery as soon as I can after we return from this leg of the tour so I can begin my recovery. There are still a few unknowns out there concerning my cancer, but I am thinking positive and hope to be back on the road soon. Thanks for all of your support!”

Conlee will be missing the band’s May and June tour dates while she undergoes treatment. We wish her a full and speedy recovery!