Randy Owen, a beloved singer from Alabama, faced a terrifying moment when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. The first question that popped into his mind was, “How long do I have?” His bandmate, Jeff Cook, the guitarist and fiddle player, also discovered he had the same form of cancer. Teddy Gentry, the bass player, experienced a scare as well, but thankfully, his test results came back healthy after a month of waiting.

“It was such an eerie feeling,” Gentry remarked. “But the truth is, it could happen to any of us at any time. We have no control over it, and it’s absolutely terrifying.”

Alabama, the legendary country music group, will be honored with the Tony Martell Lifetime Entertainment Achievement Award at the T.J. Martell Foundation’s 11th annual Nashville Honors Gala. This recognition from the leading foundation that funds cancer research holds a special meaning for Alabama because every member of the group has been affected by cancer. In addition, Jeff Cook, who is currently battling Parkinson’s disease, will also be in attendance.

“When I think of Alabama, I think of America. They have touched so many people in this country through their music and their wonderful beliefs in helping others,” said Laura Heatherly, CEO of the T.J. Martell Foundation. “We love to honor and recognize people who have made incredible contributions to our community, and Alabama has undoubtedly impacted communities across the country.”

Alabama, celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2019, initially embarked on a farewell tour in 2003. Surprisingly, they discovered that their music still resonated with fans, leading to a reunion in 2011 for Brad Paisley’s hit song “Old Alabama.” Since then, Alabama has continued to make music and plans for the future.