In 2001, former Testament/Death guitarist turned producer James Murphy was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Murphy immediately underwent surgery, which removed 70% of the tumor. The remaining 30% of the tumor had appeared to be improving and shrinking over the past several years. However, Murphy just recently revealed that there’s a chance of a tumor recurrence
Murphy posted the following on his Facebook page:
“Some troubling news for me in the last couple days. The bloodwork that was done recently revealed that the hormone indicator for the tumor I battled and defeated nine years ago is now 20 times higher than the low it reached as recently as one year ago. This could be indicative of a recurrence. Next step is an MRI, scheduled for the 11th of this month, to determine how much the tumor has grown. I am keeping a positive attitude about it and just moving forward.”
Obviously there is a great deal of concern for Murphy. In fact, CKY vocalist/guitarist Deron Miller, who worked with Murphy on World Under Blood (Miller’s death metal group), is trying to help the guitarist/produce raise funds for his medical expenses. Miller posted the following message via Facebook:
“James Murphy, legendary rock/metal guitarist (helped me with World Under Blood’s Tactical CD) has just informed me that the brain tumor he was diagnosed with in [2001] had been improving and shrinking for the last several years… is returning rapidly. If my wife Felissa and I could get our Facebook friends to each PayPal at least $1, he will have an easier time covering the expenses that come with having no insurance and being a musician/producer. I’m asking you to contribute as much as you want, but the person that contributes the most will recieve something very special from my wife and I. I’m not trying to make a competition out of this, I just want my buddy well again. Please share this post and the PayPal address is felissarose123@aol.com. 100% of the money will go to his treatment and expenses. Thanks so much in advance!!!”
This is indeed unfortunate news to hear. In addition to his work with Death and Testament, Murphy is an extremely talented guitarist who has worked with bands like Obituary, Cancer, and Disincarnate, and has also released two solo records. As a producer, he’s worked with bands such as Daath, Lazarus A.D., and World Under Blood. We’re hoping for the best for Murphy and that he kicks his tumor’s ass once again. To help with Murphy’s expenses, you can donate to Miller’s PayPal address (felissarose123@aol.com).
[via Blabbermouth]
