Renowned Alabama singer Randy Owen faced a terrifying diagnosis of prostate cancer. His initial thought was, “How long do I have?” But he wasn’t alone in this battle. Bandmate Jeff Cook, who played guitar and fiddle for Alabama, received the same diagnosis. Bassist Teddy Gentry also had a scare, but after a nerve-wracking month of waiting, his test results came back clear.
Gentry described the ordeal as an “eerie feeling,” a sentiment that rings true for anyone confronted with a health crisis. “It can happen to any of us, at any time. There’s no control over it, and it’s absolutely terrifying,” he added.
Alabama, a legendary country music trio, will be honored at the T.J. Martell Foundation’s 11th annual Nashville Honors Gala. They will receive the Tony Martell Lifetime Entertainment Achievement Award, recognizing their contributions to the entertainment industry. This accolade is particularly significant for the band, as cancer has personally affected every member. Jeff Cook, who is also battling Parkinson’s disease, plans to attend the event.
“When I think of Alabama, I think of America,” said Laura Heatherly, CEO of the T.J. Martell Foundation. “They’ve touched so many people with their music and their commitment to helping others. We love honoring those who’ve made remarkable contributions, and Alabama has certainly impacted communities across the country.”
In 2003, Alabama embarked on a farewell tour after nearly four decades in the business. However, their music continued to resonate with fans, prompting a reunion in 2011 for Brad Paisley’s hit “Old Alabama.” The band hasn’t slowed down since, continuing to create new music and make future plans.
During their break, both Owen and Cook faced cancer diagnoses. While Cook placed his faith in his medical team, Owen’s journey was more challenging. When he asked his doctor about his life expectancy, the response was blunt: “I won’t work with you if you have that attitude.”
Owen was taken aback, but the doctor’s words gave him strength. “I’m the captain now, and we’re going to beat this together,” his doctor assured him. This confidence gave Owen the courage to continue fighting.
Owen sought treatment in Mexico, where a procedure called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) was available. While this treatment wasn’t accessible in the U.S., Owen’s decision to travel abroad proved successful. Accompanied by his wife and doctor, he received treatment and has been cancer-free for nine years.
Reflecting on his experience, Owen emphasizes the importance of discussing prostate cancer openly and encourages men to undergo regular PSA tests. He believes that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a reminder of our shared vulnerability.
Owen’s commitment to cancer research extends beyond his personal battle. He has helped raise nearly $800 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through Country Cares for St. Jude Kids. In gratitude for his charitable work, a patient family room at the hospital bears his name.
While Owen has overcome his health scare, Jeff Cook continues to battle Parkinson’s. Diagnosed in 2013, Cook announced in 2017 that he would no longer be able to tour regularly with Alabama. However, after receiving stem cell treatments, Cook found that his guitar playing improved. He continues to perform when his health permits, with his bandmates ensuring his equipment is ready for him.
Despite occasional challenges with his voice, Cook remains passionate about playing the guitar in the studio. He co-wrote “No Bad Days” for Alabama’s album “Southern Drawl,” a song that now holds new meaning for him.
Through their personal battles, Alabama’s music continues to inspire and uplift their listeners. Their perseverance and dedication to raising awareness for cancer and Parkinson’s research remind us all of the power of resilience.
