<\/p>\n
Ken Stringfellow<\/a><\/strong>, a one-time member of the Posies<\/a>, the reconstituted Big Star<\/a> and a sideman for R.E.M.<\/a>, has announced on his social media channels that he\u2019s battling cancer and he\u2019s asking for help.<\/p>\n \u201cHello friends,\u201d Stringfellow wrote<\/a>. \u201cI\u2019ve recently been diagnosed with cancer. While this is a huge shift in my life, I see it as another gift disguised as an obstacle \u2014 another lesson \u2014 in a long path of growth and discovery.\u201d<\/p>\n \ud83c\udfac <\/strong>SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox<\/strong><\/a> \ud83c\udfac\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n In the post, Stringfellow does not reveal what type of cancer he\u2019s 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<\/a> accusing the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist of sexual misconduct, according to three of his former girlfriends.<\/p>\n Stringfellow and his wife Dominique denied the allegations, but the claims led to Stringfellow\u2019s Posies partner Jon Auer<\/strong> quitting the band<\/a> and Big Star surviving original member Jody Stephens<\/strong>removing him<\/a> from participating in the group\u2019s future live performances.<\/p>\n \u201cIn recent years \u2014 including on tour since my album\u2019s release last October \u2014 I\u2019ve been re-experiencing life with deeper emotion and awareness,\u201d Stringfellow wrote in his message, perhaps referencing his struggles to clear his name and continue his career in wake of the sexual misconduct allegations. \u201cAnd now, life is asking me to grow again.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m beginning treatment immediately. The prognosis is very hopeful \u2014 10 to 15 years of life expectancy with proper management is common \u2014 but the costs are high, and I don\u2019t have health insurance that covers these treatments,\u201d he added. \u201cTo focus on healing, I\u2019ve had to cancel my upcoming shows in Australia and New Zealand. Refunds will be issued where applicable.\u201d<\/p>\n Springfellow went on to mention that he is looking for support via a GoFundMe campaign<\/a>, purchasing his music on Bandcamp or hiring him for \u201cremote vocal, instrumental, or mixing sessions. Together, we can make something wonderful while helping me get through this chapter,\u201d he continued.<\/p>\n He ended his message by writing, \u201cI\u2019m practicing radical acceptance and trust \u2014 knowing that I\u2019m safe, held, and guided by a loving universe, and surrounded by family and friends. What might seem like a challenge is also a blessing \u2014 a reminder of the life, love, and creativity I\u2019m lucky to experience. Thank you for your love and support. \u2764\ufe0f\u201d<\/p>\n Fans on Instagram offered Stringfellow support in the messages.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m so sorry to hear that. Im adding a few of my favorite Posies songs to my playlists and I\u2019ll be thinking of you every time they come on. I know you will be strong and get through \u2764\ufe0f,\u201d wrote one.<\/p>\n \u201cKen. Wow. And leave it to you to find this just another leaf to turn over in this life. Rooting for your best outcomes, pal,\u201d added another.<\/p>\n This story was originally reported by Parade<\/a> on Oct 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the News<\/a> section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.<\/a><\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n