Curtis Salgado to undergo lung cancer surgery

Blues vocalist and harmonica player Curtis Salgado will undergo surgery on July 18 for lung cancer.

This will be the third time that Salgado has battled the disease. In 2005, he suffered liver cancer and received a new organ the next year. In 2008, he had his first surgery for lung cancer. Doctors feel that, once again, Salgado should have a complete recovery.

"I am extremely grateful for the overwhelming support of my family, friends and fans and the courageous people that have faced this fight before me," the 58-year-old Salgado wrote from his home this week. "I also want to thank the promoters and venues for their understanding regarding my medical situation. We will do our best to reschedule all of our performances affected by my surgery."

Salgado was the vocalist on the first Robert Cray Band album and went on to a stint as lead singer of both Roomful of Blues and Santana. He is also credited with being the inspiration for John Belushi's Joliet Jake character in The Blues Brothers.

Donations to help with Curtis's expenses can be made online at:curtissalgado.chipin.com/curtis- salgado-medical- fund. Donations can also be made to the Curtis Salgado Fund c/o Odaglas LLC Donation Account at all US Banks or by mail to US Bancorp, 2550 NW 188th Avenue, Hillsboro, OR 97124.

VVN Music