9/19/08 update
I saw Steve Strayhorn today. He is doing great. He is getting up to walk. His mental function is great. He will possibly go to the Barnes rehab center tomorrow already! I could tell that the Dr.'s were impressed with his recovery so far. His left hand is a bit weak. I doubt that he will allow that for long. He is very determined! I thought that I would keep you all posted. Keep him in your' prayers. He appreciates it!
Pam Wheatley (Steve's friend)

Steve is settled in his room and has been on his feet twice. Unfortunately, he had a small seizures this evening. His nurse was in the room at the time and said it's not unexpected with the type of surgery he had. I know Steve was disappointed, but his brain in still swollen, so he'll be susceptible at least until the swelling goes down. It was kind of scary to watch. They have padded his side rails so if he has another one, he won't get hurt. We waited around for quite a while to make sure he was OK before we left. Tomorrow he will have another MRI and physical therapy. I know he'll come out of this OK; it's just going to take him a little time.
Please continue to pray.
Judy (Steve's sister)

9/15/08 update
Hello Everyone, Drummer Steve Strayhorn is battling cancer again. Sept. 3rd he was diagnosed with a brain tumor as well as legions in his lung and adrenal gland. He is scheduled for surgery at Barnes Hospital Tuesday Sept. 16. Please keep him in your prayers, it's going to be a tough fight. His attitude is good and he is giving everything he has to kick it. we will keep you posted on his progress.
Uncle Albert has decided to take a break for a while. We have a few shows left this year. Tim, Lisa and Jon will be back as soon as we can. Right now the most important thing for us is to support Steve. We will let you know as scheduling comes together.

Thanks for your support, Tim "uncle' Albert

April '04 Update:
Steve had his last surgery Wed April 7th. He's doing very well and should be backto the drums by the end of April ... maybe sooner knowing Steve. THANKS for all your prayers and support. 

Feb 04 Update:
Things are going well. Steve is up and around and has made a few rehearsals already. We expect him back at the drum throne by the end of March. The band has added some new tunes and they’ll be ready for Steve’s return. Until then, Rusty Parker has been filling in and doing a kick ass job. Thanks Rusty.

Jan 04 Update:
Steve will have surgery at the end of January and will likely be down for 6 weeks or so.  In the meantime, the band will slow down it's schedule a bit. If you'd like to send Steve a card, mail it to
Uncle Albert in care of Steve Strayhorn 1245 Imbs Station Road  East Carondelet, IL 62240

On 9/3/03, Uncle Albert drummer, Steve Strayhorn, was diagnosed with rectal cancer.  Immediately, family, friends, and the music community have come to the aid of one of their own.

A Drum Beat For Cancer
Benefit and Fundraiser for Steven D. Strayhorn
Oct 23rd - 26th, 2003
Hammerstone's

Family and Friends of Steve Strayhorn hosted a benefit and fundraiser for him to help defray medical expenses. The event began on Thursday, Oct 23rd with a Moonlight Bike Ride @ 9th and Russell and continued through the weekend with performances and jam sessions at Hammerstones.  Over $8000 was raised!! Fundraising continues to help relieve the financial pressure on Steve and his family.  Your help is appreciated.

Currently, Steve is starting his third of five weeks of treatment - radiation 5 days a week and chemotherapy 7 days a week.  While he is starting to feel the effects of the treatment, his spirits are great and he is still playing the heck out of his drums!

Before treatments began, Steve recorded a 5 track CD of percussion solos.  He is now selling it for $10 in hopes of raising more money.  If you would like a CD, or would just like to contribute to the cause, please send a check made out to "A DRUM BEAT FOR CANCER" (in the memo please write Steve Strayhorn) to the band mailing address.  If requested, we will send you a copy of the CD.

Our address:
Uncle Albert
1245 Imbs Station Road
 East Carondelet, IL 62240

Steve would like to send thanks to all of those who have already contributed and to those who will contribute in the future.

About Steve Strayhorn:
Steven D. Strayhorn is a prominent musician in St. Louis and Illinois area. Steve has been an established musician in the bi-state area for many, many years and has been playing drums since the age of 7. Steve has worked with top musician such, as Russ Bono, Full Moon Consort, Ralph Butler, Street Corner Symphony, Brian Clarke and St. Louis Browns, Arrow Memphis, and now the Uncle Albert Band. Steve joined this band three years ago.

About Uncle Albert Band:
Uncle Albert was started in 1991 by Tim Albert and has steadily grown in popularity in the St. Louis region. The band has been busy spreading their music around the world. Playing 150/200 shows a year, in the U.S., including tow tours of Europe 1997, 1999. With growing popularity, Uncle Albert has steadily ranked among the top blues bands in St. Louis and the tri-state region. Uncle Albert has been involved in various benefits for cancer and breast cancer research, Children's welfare and education, the Veterans Association and two tours of Iceland, England and Europe including Germany.

Your Support in this very important endeavor will be greatly appreciated. Thank You.