Ken Stringfellow, a one-time member of the Posies, the reconstituted Big Star and a sideman for R.E.M., has announced on his social media channels that he’s battling cancer and he’s asking for help.
“Hello friends,” Stringfellow wrote. “I’ve recently been diagnosed with cancer. While this is a huge shift in my life, I see it as another gift disguised as an obstacle — another lesson — in a long path of growth and discovery.”
In the post, Stringfellow does not reveal what type of cancer he’s been diagnosed with, nor does he specifically address the accusations of sexual misconduct that have followed him since October 2021, when Seattle public radio station KUOW published an article accusing the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist of sexual misconduct, according to three of his former girlfriends.
Stringfellow and his wife Dominique denied the allegations, but the claims led to Stringfellow’s Posies partner Jon Auer quitting the band and Big Star surviving original member Jody Stephensremoving him from participating in the group’s future live performances.
“In recent years — including on tour since my album’s release last October — I’ve been re-experiencing life with deeper emotion and awareness,” Stringfellow wrote in his message, perhaps referencing his struggles to clear his name and continue his career in wake of the sexual misconduct allegations. “And now, life is asking me to grow again.
“I’m beginning treatment immediately. The prognosis is very hopeful — 10 to 15 years of life expectancy with proper management is common — but the costs are high, and I don’t have health insurance that covers these treatments,” he added. “To focus on healing, I’ve had to cancel my upcoming shows in Australia and New Zealand. Refunds will be issued where applicable.”
Springfellow went on to mention that he is looking for support via a GoFundMe campaign, purchasing his music on Bandcamp or hiring him for “remote vocal, instrumental, or mixing sessions. Together, we can make something wonderful while helping me get through this chapter,” he continued.
He ended his message by writing, “I’m practicing radical acceptance and trust — knowing that I’m safe, held, and guided by a loving universe, and surrounded by family and friends. What might seem like a challenge is also a blessing — a reminder of the life, love, and creativity I’m lucky to experience. Thank you for your love and support. ❤️”
Fans on Instagram offered Stringfellow support in the messages.
“I’m so sorry to hear that. Im adding a few of my favorite Posies songs to my playlists and I’ll be thinking of you every time they come on. I know you will be strong and get through ❤️,” wrote one.
“Ken. Wow. And leave it to you to find this just another leaf to turn over in this life. Rooting for your best outcomes, pal,” added another.
This story was originally reported by Parade on Oct 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.yahoo.com ’
