Former WAKY DJ Tom Dooley Seriously Ill

[John Quincy]

I learned today that former WAKY DJ Tom Dooley is having serious, life-threatening health issues. A special website has been set up by his daughter Kristin to keep his friends, family, fans and former co-workers up to date on his progress:

www.caringbridge.org/visit/tomdooley

From the site:

Several weeks ago Tom began experiencing some neurological issues such as difficulty with balance and extreme fatigue. Since then, he's undergone a battery of tests. The doctors are limited in some of the tests they can do as he only has one kidney -- he donated his other kidney to his sister over 20 years ago.

Right now, we do know that he has a large tumor in his brain. We do not know the "name" of this tumor or his prognosis.

As his dear friend and neurologist said, "we sent in a scout and we know there's an enemy. Now, we've sent in the reconnaissance team to gather more information before we launch our full scale assault".

Tom has a very positive attitude. He is leaning on the everlasting arms of the Father and is believing that God will heal him. Melanie, as always, is by his side encouraging him and fighting this battle with him.

Needless to say, your prayers are welcome. Please keep this very talented broadcaster and his family close to your heart during these tough times.

John Quincy
www.79WAKY.com

[Max]

Most definitely will lift him up in prayer! I would otherwise have made some light hearted referral to some of his on-air banter, but that would not be appropriate at this time. I will definitely add Tom to my prayer list.

[Chad]

Tom was a great guy. He also had a couple of hits here in the Lousiville area well worth checking out. My Groovy Baby and The Winds of New York City are great songs. I will be praying for his recovery.

[John Quincy]

The latest from Tom's daughter:

Today our family received confirmation that Dad has a grade 4 malignant brain tumor. The doctors had prepared us to receive this news, but actually confirming it and what the reality of that news means to our family is almost too much to bear.

Dad will be undergoing surgery on Thursday to remove as much of the tumor as possible. We have confidence in the doctors treating him, and we have faith that God will give the neurosurgeon steady hands and a calm spirit.

Dad was born a fighter and he is determined that this cancer will not rob him of his life. We will stand by his side and fight with him when he is able and fight for him when he cannot.

To our sweet friends, please understand that for the few days ahead my mother wants to spend as much uninterrupted time with Dad as possible with only their family around them.

I look forward to posting the good news of a successful surgery later this week. Until then, we believe that God is still working miracles, and we pray for one for Dad.

Leaning on the everlasting arms...

www.caringbridge.org/visit/tomdooley

[John Quincy]

Here's the latest from Tom Dooley's daughter:

We are thrilled to report that Dad's surgery was a success!! The neurosurgeon feels confident that he was able to remove 90% or more of the tumor.

God heard our prayers! Side effects that were nearly certain to occur as a result of this surgery appear to have happened in a much smaller degree than expected or did not happen at all!!

This was the important first step in a long journey. In a few weeks, Dad will continue with more treatments to remove or reduce any remaining cancer.

Please continue to pray for healing and rest for Dad. Our family is praising God for the hope He's given us!

[Max]

I am so glad to hear that there is hope and a future still for Tom to build on! God is obviously not done with him yet. I know Tom will want to be able to play music again one day, but for now just like in What About Bob, the key will be baby steps!