Dear Dan, I can only repeat what many others have already said,  I'm praying for you and your family as you unfortunately go through  this difficult time. Never lose faith. I truly believe everything happens for a  reason even though we may not know why. I unfortunately lost my mom when I was 13 to lung cancer. She didn't smoke but my dad did. I still don't  understand why I had to lose such an important person in my life at such a tough time, right before starting high school. Luckily, I had 5 brothers and  sisters to help me through.  I hope you stay positive and keep an open mind about different, natural ways to strengthen your body. May you live a long, happy life. I enjoy your music very much. So many songs bring back good memories of my childhood. God Bless and stay strong!! Sincerely ~Gina  Colburn

Dear Dan, I have been listening to your music a lot lately, and it always brings me much needed joy.  I was so happy to read tonight that your illness has not gotten you down and you are doing well.  My dad had prostate cancer and was a survivor for many years.  Your message about PSA's is right on the money. Best always ~ Melinda

Dear Dan,  What can I say that hasn't been said before?  Anyway, here goes . . .  It was the song "Longer" that hooked me for good.  We sang that from sheet music in grade school chorus; it must have been more than 20 years ago by now.  That led me to buy your Greatest Hits on cassette tape.  That makes me smile now.  I have since replaced my cassettes with CD's.  I was lucky enough to see you in concert twice in St. Louis, MO and I daydreamed about flying out to California to experience one of your winery performances.  Not only do I deeply appreciate your music, I feel like we have a number of things in common.  My birthday is August 13; I have a master's degree in Environmental Science and I teach that course, as well as other biology courses at a university now.  So yes, when I'm listening to your music-with-a-cause, you're preaching to the choir.  The other thing our families have in common is an ongoing battle with cancer.  My husband was diagnosed with Stage IV esophageal cancer in July.  We've been married for 15 years (high school sweethearts) but we waited to have children.  Our son was 2 months old at the time the doctors told my husband that he had 6 months to live.  It's 4 months later now, my husband is enrolled in a clinical research chemotherapy trial and initial results are hopeful.  Ok, I promised myself I'd type until the tears came . . . I know that you understand that every day is truly a gift; may you have the joy of opening many, many more to come, and may God continue to shine through you. ~  A Loyal Fan

Dan,  I have been a fan of your music for over 30 years.  The profound words of your lyrics never fail to touch the very depths of my soul and move me every time I hear them.  I was saddened to hear, last year, of your diagnosis, and since hearing the news, I do say a prayer for you each day.  I truly do know what you and your family are going through, but I am sending you all of the positive energy I can.  I admire your attitude and the strength of your spirit. I lost the love of my life to prostate cancer 8 years ago.  "Longer" was our wedding song...... Stay strong!!! ~ Susan, Monmouth Junction, New Jersey

I first heard of and experienced Dan Fogelberg's music in the fall of 1976, when I heard Captured Angel in the college dorm of a friend. Hooked on Fogelberg ever since...Of course, those were the days of 8 tracks...So, Dan, I have bought them all....albums, cassettes, and CDs. I guess I'll learn how to use the ipod...or whatever is the next generation.

Dan, your music and lyrics are incredibly touching on so many levels: intellectually, spiritually, experientially, and of course, environmentally.  And, in concert, you are humorous and entertaining. I have been praying for you, for Jean and your health and spirit. It is so wonderful to hear your good news and continuing recovery. And, I will spread the sermon to every man I know. Warm wishes ~ Lisa

Dear Dan- I just found out the news about your illness and I'm absolutely devastated. I'm praying for your full and quick recovery-  I've loved you and your music since the 70's- All the best and keep us posted regularly!!!! ~ Karen H - Long Island, NY

As a PC survivor, mine was caught early during regular physical when the doctor did not like the feel of my prostate. I wish you well. You are in my thoughts and prayers as is your family as it is just as difficult for them. ~ Bill Hopkinson

Dear Dan & Jean: Just wanted to say Hello, and let you know that Bill and I are praying for you. Received your CD, The Essentials, in the mail this week and it is wonderful, we have been listening to it in our store, house & vehicle.  Our favorites are "Rhythm of the Rain" & "Run for the Roses", but actually we love the whole CD. We just found out about your Cancer fight, and believe me we will be in constant prayer for you. Keep the Faith!!! With Love, Your Friends ~ Debbie & Bill Bayer, Junction, TX

Dan and Jean, All of our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. I am sure when things become so personal it is a test of understanding and of the self and relation to the bigger picture of things.  Maybe questions about that great wheel of life and beyond. It must take some time and reflection to find the meaning of it all and place in it. Daniel, don't you ever doubt that you have impacted all of us and continue to. Impact yourself.  It is your time. ~ Nancy and best friend Sam, my dog.

Oh Dan, I was so saddened to hear the news of your cancer.  It seems that it is all around us.  But sometimes it is also an odd sort of gift, as I have experienced since my own diagnosis 9 months ago.  I pray for your continued recovery.  I also pray that you might see the many unexpected blessings that are found on this path that nobody wants to take, yet so many of us find ourselves making our way through. Your music, your voice, your words have all been a source of every human emotion for me for so many years and for that I thank you.  To know how much you have meant to so many people must be awesome, and I'm so glad we have been given the chance to let you know.  Healing thoughts and prayers stay with you, my friend.  ~ Judy, St. Louis, Missouri    

Dan, Thank you for touching so many lives, including mine, through your music and now, your message about prostate cancer screening. Awareness is key and hopefully many men, traditionally known for shying away from any type of medical test or procedure, will get the PSA and DRE. Thanks again ~ Maryann Merion

Dan, I have enjoyed your music for years. I was saddened to read that you had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Today I read a small article about you in Parade magazine &  was happy to read you were doing so well. I hope that your progress  improves every day & that you have reached many, many men to encourage them to have their own prostates checked. Your songs were always inspirational  & moving. Let's hope this same will happen with your wake up call to all men! Sincerely ~ Fran Hoffman

Beginning with Home Free, many a night I lie in the dark, with the Stereo low, listening, to the guitar speak and your melodic words chase away the cares of the world.  I also remember my 3 year old son singing the chorus, at the top of his lungs fastened to his car seat, to "Leader of the Band." His name is also Dan.  You have touched my life in a small way but one in which those memories bring a smile to my face.  Best of Luck with your recovery as I too, am a Prostate Cancer Survivor. God Bless, You and your Wife in all that may come in the future. Just Thanks ~ Charles  

I have been a fan of Dan's music since the Nether Lands album was released. The music has helped me get through some very trying times so I am sending this email in the hopes that it helps return the favor in some small way. I am happy to hear that Dan is on the road to recovery and I wish good health for him, his family and friends. Sincerely ~ Roger Gilbert, Kansas City, Ks.

Dan - I am a 55 year old man living in Davie, Florida. I have been a fan for many years and still today listen and enjoy your music. I was diagnosed with Leukemia 5 years ago and have completed 20 treatments of chemotherapy over the  past 3 years. I can feel your initial pain and anguish as the diagnosis was explained to you. For me , at first, it was a death sentence which wrapped me up  in fear and terror. I sold my home, boat and any other assets that I feared my  family would get burdened with...and crawled up in a shell...waiting to die.  That was 5 years ago and I realize that with modern medicine and a ton of faith that yes LIFE as I once knew it was over BUT a newer life has begun and I have  learned to cherish each and every moment. I was thrilled to hear that the prognosis is good and that you are enjoying a well deserved retirement.....God  knows you've earned it.  Well, you will always remain in my prayers and I  am sure that with the love and support of your family only BRIGHTER days are ahead.....GOD BLESS and GOOD LUCK. (Please say a prayer for me also as
I could  always use the extra help)

Dan, I'm still thinking of you.  I hope you are doing well with the cancer.  Play guitar often, if only for yourself and enjoy life. Regards ~ Stan Milam

Hi Dan, I was so happy to read your letter from August, '05 about the progression of your cancer being slowed down. I'm hoping that as of this writing you are continuing to improve with each passing day. Your music has been one of the constants in my life since 1972. Souvenirs changed the way I "heard" music  "Part of The Plan" was just an incredible song both lyrically, and instrumentally. I can't think of a song that I have not enjoyed, and your musical ventures with Tim Weisberg were absolutely beautiful. You did an "unplugged" solo version in Springfield Illinois several years back, and that was the last time I heard you perform. Would love to hear you perform again someday, or even a new album. That would be just fine. It could happen. As you stated in your August letter, your keeping all your options opened. Stay Healthy Dan ~ John Clayton

Dear Dan, I'm a native of Illinois, living in Colorado for 30 years, a physician, and a longtime fan of your terrific musical and lyrical talent. God bless you and grant you great success in your winning fight! When you are ready, let your emotions flow through your great gift of music; it will contribute to your healing, believe me! ~ Dr. Ron Jendry, Evergreen

Hello Dan, As a longtime fan (over 30 years) I want to wish you continued success with your treatments. You were and still are one of my favorite singer/songwriter of all time, what talent you possess. Luckily we saw you here in Houston about 5-6 years ago on your solo tour.  We enjoyed it immensely!! Take care, our prayers are with you. ~ Paul Kleissle, Pearland, Texas

Dan, just a brief note to my  icon -- simply the greatest musician ever..that you are never forgotten in your  quest for wellness and a complete cure. You and your family are in my thoughts  and prayers daily. Your music has brought me joy indescribable over the last 30+  years. I look forward to your total healing and future musical creative wizardry. Take good care my "old friend" and know how much you are loved for the  love your music has created. ~ Greg Tuttle, MD, Chapel Hill/Durham,  NC

Dear Dan,Your music and lyrics have been a guidance and comfort for me since I was fourteen. To read of what you must have gone through in the past two years was a shock for me, and at the same time I was relieved to read the positive news in your letter of August 13, and deeply touched by the positive and hopeful charisma of your words. I would like to send you all my best wishes and warmest thoughts, and strength to get along with all that. Please excuse my "jolty" English, as I am writing to you from Germany. I would like to thank you so much for all you gave me with your music. My thoughts are with you ... Wishing you all the best! ~ Kirsten from Heilbronn, Germany

Hello Dan: your music has meant much to me over the years, ever since I heard "Souvenirs" in 1974. I've enjoyed your music ever since.  Because of what has happened to you I have had my prostate checked and will every year from now on.  Thank you for helping other men overcome their fears and getting this important test done. A fan for 20 years ~ Craig

Dear Dan, after having listened to your songs for more than 25 years (the first I ever heard was "Longer") I feel that time has come to say a few personal words. First, I'm  enthusiastic to hear that your recovering from
prostate cancer obviously is making progress. I'm overwhelmed by your courage to post all the details on  your web page. This is certainly the best you can offer to similarly suffering people. All best wishes to you, and I'm truly confident that we'll see you back on stage soon.

In brief: my name is Walter  Bauer, age 52, I'm Professor of Chemistry in Erlangen, Germany. When not busy  with my job, I play drums, keyboards, bass, and guitar. Listening to your songs has been one of the greatest experiences in my life. I remember  that the most touching moment came when my father died in 1993 and
I put  an ad in the newspaper, posting parts of "Leader of the Band" (hope you don't  mind my violating copyrights...). I received so many responses, all of them asking who wrote these beautiful lyrics (though I actually added your name). My wife and I were hungering all the years to see you in  concert, at least once. From your web schedule I saw that you have been travelling extensively throughout the US, however, rarely a
schedule  to other countries. Europe isn't that far away, and I'm very confident that the fan community here is numerous and sound. Could you imagine that, after -  what I truly hope - you have completely recovered from cancer, that you might undertake a trip, e.g. to Germany? We have such beautiful cities and performing areas here.

As far as I'm aware, you spent more and more concert time with your "solo acoustic tour" in recent years, which is something that I  strongly encourage. Your songs are so substantial that there is principally no need for being supported by a band. Of course, my personal dream is to be able to listen to your solo tour in the next future.
Dan, again  my overwhelming thanks for your music and your lyrics. Certainly, this is  "intimitadely" (beautiful songs together with Tim Weisberg!) related to your  personality, your touching inside. I sincerely wish that you will get up on your feet again and that you will be writing many more of these beautiful  songs. You have
demonstrated to people all over the world that music can have  such a dramatic influence on harmony, personal mood, and  - not least  - peace. Really! Go ahead, possibly all your music so far has been meant  to be a message from above. I'm not spiritual, but listening to your songs  brings about some magic. All my deepest wishes for your future and all  my best regards ~ Walter Bauer  

Recently I was flipping thru tv channels, looking for something to satisfy my interest and hold my attention (which is hard to do these days!) when I found a concert on my local cable station.  Though I didn't recognize the
song that the band was playing, I found that I liked it a great deal and decided to see what 'local' band this was; maybe I could support them. After watching a while, I noticed the lead singer looked a bit familiar but couldn't quite place his face (I found him extremely attractive, yet familiar).  I continued to watch for a while and appreciated the singer's passion and thought, "Hey, this band is really going to do well!".  Well, lo and behold, the next song that they played was a song I knew all too well and suddenly I realized I was watching Dan Fogelberg and his band.  Dan was my absolute dream man in my teens and early 20's-his lyrics, his music, his
physical features and just his way in general: sensitive yet manly.  I quickly ran to my closet and pulled out all my old tapes (yes, tapes) and started playing them but couldn't find my favorites - Home Free and Souvenirs.  I had Barnes & Noble order a copy of each and have been listening ever since. I was absolutely CRUSHED when I heard about Dan's illness.  My heart went through the floor and I've been listening intently for news of his health ever since.  I'm glad I stumbled upon this website and to hear that his prognosis is relatively good.  My thoughts and prayers are with this special man who, through his lyrics and sensual voice, helped me through some tough times as well.   Best wishes for many happy and healthy years ahead ~ Bonnie Olguin

Hi Dan, Just thinking of you. Hope you are feeling better. Best wishes ~ Tina in New Mexico

A friend of mine passed the URL to me this morning. I was so glad to hear the good news. We had just been discussing Dan the other day and wondering how Dan was doing. My best wishes to you Dan and your loved ones. Hopefully your "sermon"  will be heeded.

I recently had a bout with Colon Cancer. It was caught at an early stage. I'm currently undergoing Adjuvant chemotherapy - Chemotherapy given to destroy left-over (microscopic) cells that may be present after the known tumor is removed by surgery.  Adjuvant chemotherapy is given to prevent a possible cancer reoccurrence. My prognosis is good because it was caught at a fairly early stage. However I may have avoided the whole scenario had I gone for a colon screening test at the recommended age of 50 instead of 56. I'd like to add my own mini-sermon with the intent to persuade people to get the colon screening. If you are of age or at risk due to family history, have a chat with your physician and discuss the procedure, ask your questions so that you can clear up any misconceptions or fears or concerns. Simply put the colon screening procedure (colonoscopy) itself is no big deal.  I was foolish to wait but lucky.  Please don't make the same mistake I did by avoiding something that can save your life.

I am part of a group of women who sing regularly on Thursday mornings in Tallahassee at the home of a well-known local musician named Velma Frye.  She leads us in our singing group and selects our music for us.  She recently selected a Dan Fogelberg song called "Only the Heart May Know".  I had never heard it before but I have been so moved by the song.  Our group of women, about 15 of us sing the song so beautifully.  Not as beautifully of course as you and Emmylou Harris sing it on your album, but we do sound wonderful.  I just wanted to let you know that your music has had a great impact on our little group of women.  I tape the class on my little tape recorder every Thursday in case you want to hear us lovely ladies sing this lovely song.  Just a thought.  I was thinking of how much music heals.  When someone in the group mentioned this morning that you had had cancer, I thought about sending an e-mail.  The ladies will be glad to hear that you are doing so well. Thanks again for your music! ~ Julie S.

Dan-- My father, who had prostate cancer as well, fighting  successfully for quite a long time, had passed away in 1996 from a different form. Being an exceptional and respected cantor, he was the person I learned singing treatment from, along with my mother, an accomplished opera performer. At his funeral, I read the chorus of "Leader of the Band" in his eulogy. Now that I have spent 25 years making a living in music and I'm still happy to have made such good use of your  lyric. Unfortunately and fortunately, I'm now using the song again to write a non-comedic parody for my friend, Ira, a bandleader who passed away suddenly a little over a year ago. His friends came up with the idea and  asked me to do the writing. A multi-instrumentalist and singer with an  uncanny ear and a mentor to so many musicians in the Jewish wedding business, he deserves the tribute and I'm honored to do it. I thank  you for the music and I wish you well for many years to come. ~ Gershon  Veroba

Dan, So glad to hear the good news!  We have been fans of yours since the very first album.  Your words, your music, your passion are very  comforting and inspiring.  We don't leave the house without a Dan  Fogelberg cd in the car! Continued thoughts and prayers are with you  and your family as your health improves.  And thanks for being a part  of ours and so many others lives.  You have made the world a better  place!  Take care ~ Kevin Dunn and John Hoops, Eugene,  Oregon.

Mr. Fogelberg, I just came to this site to find a couple copies of "Wild Places." One for a friend, and one for myself. I've worn out my cassette ages ago, but will replace it with a CD. For some reason I can't find a copy at the store. Anyway,  I came here and read your not-so-great news. So sorry about that. All the best of God's blessing to you and Jean. I've recently become engaged. We were listening to your "Essential" CD, so now it carries even greater meaning for me. Blessings in abundance ~ Fran Ponda

Dearest Dan, I was so thrilled to hear   your good report awhile back...and to read it in your own words. It was like a giant weight lifted from my heart. This week, at the end of October, I had that beautiful song of yours on my mind, so played the album 'Promises' which has that and a collection of some other of your BEST songs.   It was so wonderful to just drink it all in again-your beautiful words and music! Later that same night I shared that album with a dear friend. Your music is the kind that brings me so much pleasure in sharing! Am hoping to hear the good news in the near future that you have reached the point where you are ready to come back to us.  I will be there wherever and whenever you are ready! A loyal fan, always ~ June - Ocala,Fl.

Dan - Was just able to catch a re-run of your PBS Soundstage broadcast. A brief email can't articulate the effect you've had on my guitar journey over the last 25 years.  You're a major influence and inspiration - and I thank you for all you've done musically and lyrically.  Simply, I wish you the best in health and salvation.  You will be missed by my wife and me and, Lord willing, we'll hear more from you.  Kindly ~ James and Elizabeth MacDougall

Dan, Recently celebrated my 50th birthday and received your Greatest Hits CD  which brought back memories of days gone by.  I'm so glad to hear you have  gotten thru this trying period in your life and look forward to the time when  you decided that it's time to do one more encore.  We  miss you in  Chicago! ~ Peggy Dassatti

So glad to hear your good news! Thank you for sharing your music!

GOD is good all the time.....All the time GOD is good!  Continued blessings, mercy and grace from Our Lord Jesus Christ for he knows we long to hear the songs praising His name that will come from this experience. Much Love to You and Jean! ~ Alisa & Emma Brewer

Dear Dan: Just saw your letter on your web site. Best news I have heard in a long time! Continued good wishes to you, your wife and family. God bless and lots of love ~ Jo-Ann in Florida

Dear Dan, we continue to keep you in our thoughts, and look forward to more good news from you. Thank you for your "sermon", because my husband took your advice, and with my pushing, went for his tests! You are continuing to do good things for this world!  All our best to you, Jean,& your family. ~ Cheryl - New York

I checked your website this morning and saw the update on your progress. I cannot express how relieved and thankful I am to read of your great news! I have followed your music through your entire career--it has, over the years and through my life situations, been a source of consolation, inspiration, hope, and pure joy. Those of us who admire you and your talent today breathe a collective sigh of relief, and will continue to pray for your full recovery. I have also fancied that I have a sort of connection to you, being an Illinois native myself, as well as being a musician (who, with my band covered many of your songs over the years!) Please, Dan, accept my personal thanks for all you have given to all of us--we'll keep sending the good vibes and healing energy your way. All the best ~ Jane Voller, Columbus Ohio

Dan, so glad to hear that you're keeping your head up, your spirits high and making progress with your illness. I've been a big fan of yours since the early '70s, when I first heard "Part of the Plan" and "As the Raven Flies". Saw you perform for the first time at Texas Hall on the University of Texas-Arlington campus. You had released Captured Angel by this time and I was quite familiar with it as well as Souvenirs. But I was completely unaware of your first album. You played almost all of the songs off Home Free and I was blown away. Have seen you perform several times since then, including a concert at the same venue in Arlington when you gave it your best shot despite coming down with food poisoning. You had to cut that show short, but rewarded your fans with a free concert at Moody Coliseum in Dallas that was fantastic. Your performances have always been moving, powerful and an absolute delight. Your music has given me so much pleasure over the years. Your guitar playing, sense of melody, lyrical talents, vocal abilities and the honesty of your songwriting never ceases to amaze. God bless you ~ Rob Stroope

Dear Dan: God bless you as you continue to recover from your illness. My wife and I fell in love to your music and in many ways it has inspired us as we raised our children, one now ready to go to college. Just this evening, Nov.1, we were listening to Home Free with our seven-year-old son, Christopher. The memories prompted me to see if I could find out how you were feeling. Needless to say, we are happy to hear of your progress. Continued good health and thank you for a lifetime of memories and music. ~ John and Marilyn Altavilla, Branford, Ct.

Dear Dan, My best wishes to you and Jean.  I am so glad that you found someone to share both your happiness and sad times.  You have taken me through both.  I remember your Home Free when I was a senior in college. I woke up the day after graduation to "To The Morning" knowing that I was leaving a stage in my life as well as my true love. As time has passed your songs often carried me back to a happier time and memories. I want you to know that after 18 years I was reunited with my love and my happiness.  Thank you for all you have done for me.  I still listen to you often and smile.  May God bless you and bring you the happiness and the laughter you so richly deserve. Sincerely ~ Debbi Burnett

After reading all of the other well-wishers, I certainly can't add anything. I am a life-long fan if not lover of your music.  Playing as an amateur, my repertoire was nearly entirely your stuff.  I am also overjoyed at hearing of your winning the battle.  Not a day goes by that I don't include you in my prayers.  As a fellow 50 something, I have grown up with you and very jealous that I seemed to have all the same emotions, but not able to translate them like you can.  All my best to you and yours.  I'm having a tough time figuring out a couple of your new songs, but I hope to be able to share them with this younger generation.  My son is carrying on the music in our family and he loves to include "Fogelberg stuff" during his open mic sessions.  Thanks for all that you've meant to me and my wife.  You will always be our brother.  God bless you and yours. ~ Tim Felus

Yes, we live each day in the hands of angels. Continued Blessings to D.F. ~ Lori A. Giles

Dan, We are truly brothers! I was diagnosed terminal with Prostate Cancer stage 4, with mest to my pelvic lynph glands, no true treatment or cure. I went to 6 doctors and a major cancer hospital in Texas . Each had the same advice --come back when it gets worse and stay on hormone to stall the cancer.I kept going until I heard a Doctor who believed in me and was willing to take a chance on me . He recommended Laproscopic sugery to debulk my cancer. That was two years ago and now my cancer is still not active or visable.I go for regular PSA's and test to see if my cancer is active. But God has granted me life so I may help others survive. I also do advocacy in Texas and Washington DC for Prostate Cancer. We have so far to go to advance men's health.May God grant you a speedy recovery and health. Kindest Regards ~ Leibel B. Harelik, Austin, TX

Dan as a disc-jockey for weddings I used your music to help young couples start there new lives and the joy of your music brought much happinees on those occasions, and I'm sure for years to come, I wish you the happiness that you gave them,  to you on your road to recovery. ~ "TJ the DJ"  Ted Jones

Dear Dan, I send you my heartfelt wishes from across the sea in Germany.  I grew up listening to your music, and it helped me through the traumas of my childhood during the late 70's / early 80's.  Your music gave me hope when I didn't know what hope even was, and it gave me a reason to sing without ceasing.  I remain grateful to you for inspiring me to see the light at the end of the tunnel.  I wish in the coming holiday season that all that hope and inspiration returns to the source from where it came all those years ago.  Namasté and my best to you and yours ~ Yvette