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Decemberists' Jenny Conlee has breast cancer

The accordion and keyboard player announced on the Portland, Ore.-based folk-pop band's website that she will be taking time off to undergo treatment.
/ Source: E!online

The Decemberists are temporarily going to be down a member.

Accordion and keyboard player Jenny Conlee announced on the Portland, Ore.-based folk-pop band's website that she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and will be taking time off to undergo treatment.

But fear not, Decemberists fans. It's not as gloomy as it sounds.

"The good news is that Jenny caught it early," said the band's leader, Colin Meloy, adding that "the prognosis is very, very good for a full recovery."

Still, Conlee will need to take some time off from touring and will miss all nine of the group's concerts in May and June.

"To be making music with everyone and seeing the fans has helped me to feel more positive and keep my mind off of my diagnosis," said Conlee. "But, alas, as the tour winds down, it is time for me to get back to reality. I will try to get into surgery as soon as I can after we return from this leg of the tour so I can begin my recovery."

Despite what will likely be a tough regimen of radiation and possibly chemo, the musician remained upbeat.

"There are still a few unknowns out there concerning my cancer, but I am thinking positive and hope to be back on the road soon," she said. "Thanks for all of your support! See you soon!"

We wish her a speedy recovery.