Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Word from the man!


I had an amazing Benefit Party in my honor on Saturday evening in Los Angeles, California. My old buddy Kevin O'Neal (BusBoys-Tracy Chapman-Otis Day and the Knights fame) was the MD of the Event. I was absolutely BLOWN AWAY by the evening's entertaining. Trio featuring Raymond Pounds (Long time Stevie Wonder Drummer), Deborah Holland (Animal Logic) joined the band for 5 tunes, followed 5 Gospel group, "The Radiant Voices" who turned the place on its collective head! I played a whole lot of percussion and then joined Tom Freund and friends (Ben Peeler, Freddy Koella & Stevie Blacke), behind the drums. Then Jackson Browne joined us behind the piano and Kevin O'Neal on bass for a long set including "Jamaica Say You Will", "Barricades of Heaven", "Doctor My Eyes", "The Weight" and a rousing sing-a-long dub version of "No Woman, No Cry"!!! I am getting my last chemo as we speak and the meds are kicking in so it's nap time > bye for now. thank you for all of the support & get-well wishes so far.

Wally





[MORE PICTURES FROM THE BENEFIT DINNER]




Greetings Friends!

I hope you all are happy and healthy and Rocking Hard! In case you have not already heard, I have been diagnosed with Squamous Cell Cancer in the Tonsil and Neck region. My prognosis is very good even with Stage 4A rating (Apparently Stage 4B wouldn't be so promising). So we are very fortunate to have caught it at this stage. I was not feeling rite after The Joshua Tree Festival (June) and thought It was my usual fun with allergy season or a sinus infection. It seemed like a lot of people were sick at that time so I figured that it was my turn as well. I felt some odd pain behind my right eye, in my right ear & sinuses. I'm thinkin' no big deal take some vitamins drink a lot of water and get some rest and I'll be ready to hit the road with The Animals for 7-8 weeks Euro-Tour. On my way into LA from the desert I noticed a swollen Lymph gland on the Rt side of my neck and kept an eye on it as began to increase in size over the coming weeks. We played in Canada and drove to Sugarloaf NY where Marianna (Eric Burdon's wife) took me to the local Emergency Room. After a couple hours of sitting around, paperwork etc..the Doc checked me out, prescribed some anti-biotics said to see an ENT Dr. in 3-4weeks and sent us on our way. Over the next few weeks the symptoms subsided except for the Lymph node(s) continuing to get bigger and bigger. Week 5 in Germany I was able to see an ENT Dr. which wasn't easy as Drs. were on strike all over the Country. The Dr. determined that there was no ear infection but something happening in the back of my throat and believed that the mass on my neck was neither Lymph or Thyroid but rather some sort of Cyst that should be surgically removed and even offered to do it if I would be in town for a few days. As it turned out attempting to remove the "mass" could have been lethal! (oops) Good thing we were just passin' through I guess. I got some more anti-biotics and was on my way (Poland, Italy, Spain,Switz,Sweden, Serbia etc..) When we returned to the States in late early September I began my search for a Dr(s) to figure once and for all what was really going on. i went from Dr. to Dr. each calling for more tests (Ultrasound, Blood, MRI, PET/CT Scan) and finally after a surgery to biopsy the tonsil making the determination of Squamous Cell Carcinoma originating in the Tonsil and spreading to the Neck... so there ya have it.

I began a 6 week Induction Chemotherapy treatment program at Cedars-Sinai in LA on Sept. 25. After 3 weeks the neck mass has responded incredibly well to the aggressive treatment, shrinking dramatically!!! I am experiencing some pretty Gnarly side-effects but this is fair trade to eradicate the beast! I will spare the gruesome details. After the 6 week deal I will undergo 7-8 weeks of Radiation/ Chemo combination treatments 5-days a week followed by a surgery to clean up any left-overs. We have an amazing team of Doctor's and we are getting cutting edge treatment protocol. Some of these chemo drugs are not even FDA approved as yet! All good so far and we are confident that everything is going to be just fine!

I can't say enough about the outpouring of love and support from friends, family and folks whom I've not even met(yet)! Laurie and I would like to sincerely thank you all for reaching out during this difficult time. Thank You So Much.

Love and Determination,

Wally, Laurie and Lydia

Support, Get Well Wishes & Prayers for Wally!

----------------------------
Hey Wally,

You are loved by a lot of people here in Asheville. We all wish you health and a speedy recovery. I turned a bass player friend on to you and Mr. Dave and it made him decide to keep on playing. He is monster player who loves music but was at the burn-out stage because around here one has to do a lot of whore gigs to survive. That’s the price of living and picking in the hills.
Your daughter is beautiful. She looks so happy. My wife and I are trying to make a wee one. Congratulations to you and your wife.

Love and knishes,
Richard
----------------------------
It was great to see you and Laurie last night- and also great to hear you with everyone. I'm sorry I couldn't stay for the whole night -you have some great friends. I know the next few weeks may be a little rough but I hope the vibes from all of us that care about you from last night will stay with you during this time and protect you and yours....I'll be staying in touch- hopefully figuring out a way to buy one of your Burdon portraits..............dave "swifty" brengle
----------------------------
Hope that all is well
Please let us know how we can help
Sorry that I’m so late, but I’ve been traveling non-stop for quite a while now
All the best---good health and cheer to you and yours
Bill Walton

----------------------------
Hi Wally,
Linda Barnes here. I just wanted to tell you how much I loved seeing you and how much I loved hearing you play .

Please know that in all the hub bub of the gig I wanted to make sure you know that I am truly grateful I know you and all my heart is with you.

I brought a friend to the benefit with me who is a drummer and he said as you played, " I am learning as I listen". You are a really great talent and a wonderful person and I am truly blessed to know you.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do to make this time a bit easier.
Very Very truly yours,
Linda
----------------------------
Hi Guys-
Sal and I think about you guys all the time. We hope things are going as well as possible.
When you feel up to it, we would love to know how everything is going. I trust you got our last e-mail. We certainly know it's tough to get on the ole computer and get things out to everyone. We didn't want to be pests, but as you know, that's what Sal and I do best. Ha!
Know that you are in our prayers and thoughts and we are always here for you.
Love...Deke and Sal
----------------------------
Dear Wally,

It was a great time last night at the coachhouse. It was so cool to see you and all of the people who support you along with some great music. It was also great to see Joan and David whom I hadnt seen in years. Soul of a Man and the song about the Man-Boobs were superfine. I hope you are on the new Animals Cd because now I am very motivated to go out and buy it. You look great and I know you are going to beat it, especially with all of the energy we felt last night!

Terry Gilkeson (Claremont, CA)
----------------------------

Hi Wally,just wanted to let you know sending out good vibes,love,hope and prayers from the east coast,I battled a bout of thyroid cancer back in 2003 and like you thank god caught it early and almost 3yrs later cancer free and I know you will throw that sh*t on its ass so don't have any doubts,hope to see ya sometime before but if not i'll definatly see you 2010 30 year class reunion,Take Care thoughts are with you Timbo
----------------------------
Gadugi means community spirit in the Western dialect of Cherokee.

You are generating gadugi. So even though it may look like others are doing most of the work all of a sudden, you are still doing the greater part of the job.

Carry On!
Elk Thunder
----------------------------
Hey Wally,

It is Lee Schwartz, the drummer in Sam Holt's band 'Outformation'. I just want to say that I learned about the unfortanate news of your battle with cancer and that I wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and want you to keep your spirits up because you can beat this thing. You are an awesome drummer and a great person and don't you forget that. I asked our webmaster to put a link to your website and tell everyone to get on board the 'Help Wally Beat Cancer' campaign - I know it isn't much but every little bit helps. I hope to see you down the road.........
Lee
http://www.foryouroutformation.com/
----------------------------
Wally,
Any friend of David's is all right with me - God bless you and help you in these trying times you face. All the best wishes to you and hopes for your rapid recovery--
Peace
Gary B.
----------------------------
Dearest Wally and family,
I heard about all that you and your family are dealing with and wanted to send some good juju and prayers your way. Michael McMorrow forwarded your update about the chemo and all of the stuff that goes with, and you sound like the same old guy; sense of humour firmly intact and a hopeful and strong heart-excellent work-I would expect nothing less! well, just droppin you a quick note to say you are being thought of and prayed for all the way to Seattle and all around the globe Im sure. Much love to you and your wife and daughter-keep going!
Wally, you can do it!!!!
xoxoxoxoAmy Elyse
----------------------------
Get well soon and all the best! May you and Mr. Dave tour many more times!
Best wishes,
Viggo Hasseltvedt
Norway
----------------------------
Sorry to hear about your sudden craving for (hospital) cat food sandwiches! Get better, and our thoughts are with you. - Buddy and Rheda Seagraves, Asheville, NC
----------------------------
Dear Wally,
I read about your treatment for cancer on Mr. Dave's site. My goodness!!! As a long time Mr. Dave adept i was lucky to see you and Mr. Dave in concert during some European gigs. I wish you all the best and I hope that the treatment will be helpfull to kill the cancer and.... that you'll be back behind the drums a.s.a.p.
Keep it up Wally, "don't give up" (great song by Terry Evans on Walk that Walk)
Tjerk Snik
Poeldijk
The Netherlands
----------------------------
Wally,
Got the news the other day, we pray for you and your family. Stay strong, stay long.
Peace
Jeff Van Keuren & Tribe
----------------------------
Wally,

Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but we know you're putting up a good
fight to get back behind the traps soon! Just wanted to email you best wishes in your recovery from everyone at Rosebud. We sent a card to your attention at Mark Brenner's address listed on your website as well.

Hang in there!
Michael Morris
----------------------------
Several years ago (late 90's? early 00's?) I saw you and Dave perform in Omaha. It remains to this day one of the best concerts I've ever had the joy of attending. The casual banter between you guys and the audience and the fact that you both hung around in the club with all of us after the gig was the icing on the already scrumptious cake that was your amazing show. I want to thank you for that. It was memorable.

Having recently logged on to Dave's website and read the news that you've been sick, I was prompted to write this email to you. Obviously, out of respect for your privacy, the news on the site doesn't go into detail about your illness. I can only assume, since it mentions surgery and chemotherapy, that you were discovered to have some sort of cancer. That's a disease that sure earns its bad reputation. I don't say this in the flip casual way of an outsider, I say this because I truly know.
As much as I wish I were an "outsider", I too am a member of the Cancer Club.

After 196 hours of chemotherapy (5-FU and cysplatin) and 40 radiation treatments in 1996, my cancer went into remission and has remained that way for a decade. It was a rough road. I honestly felt like I was going to die. But I didn't.

As much as the treatments weakened my body, I kept saying to myself "Well if the chemo's doing this much to my healthy parts, just think of the havoc it's wreaking on those fucking cancer cells! Die, bastards, die!!! Hahahaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!". This outburst would generally be followed by some sort of swoon into a morphine-induced hallucination involving levitating off my bed and conversing with my long-deceased grandmother, but I digress...My point is that cancer isn't an automatic death sentence. If you embrace your treatment drugs as your allies, your own personal hardcore Navy seals, your wicked-mean pissed-off army of trained killers fighting on YOUR side of the war and conducting some big-time ass-kicking on a daily basis, then what's a couple of battle scars when you ultimately reign supreme?

That kept me going. Maybe it can help you too. Well that, and the miracle of Dole Fruit'n Juice Frozen Fruit Bars. <---[honestly, dude, not a paid advertisement... they seriously were all I could eat for three whole weeks in the middle of my chemo treatments]

Best wishes to you, and may you be drumming again soon!
Speedy healing,
Pamela Nelson
Lincoln, Nebraska
----------------------------
As my grandma signs all her letters: Good, lovin' feelings comin' your way...
Open up the window and let 'em in!

Letitia in Los Angeles
----------------------------
Wally,

So sorry to hear you aren't well. If you fight this as well as you play your music, you should beat it in no time. Please get better, we miss seeing you.

Steve, Debbie, Jenay, Rochelle and Andy Kiddoo
Northern California
----------------------------
Hi Wally,

I just read on a Rylanders list that you are doing battle with the big C. I’m not sure whether you remember me, this is Cheryl from Vancouver, a friend of David’s and I am also a cancer survivor. The e-mail that was forwarded on the list said that you were just beginning to start chemo; I won’t lie to you, chemo is a fucking bitch but it works. I’m truly sorry to hear that you are dealing with this, I wouldn’t wish cancer on my worst enemy, however it was also an amazing positive experience. I know that sounds crazy and a little insensitive, but I wouldn’t have changed my cancer journey for anything. I wish you well on your journey and hope to hear good news soon.

Much love and positive thoughts to you Wally.

Peace Out
Cheryl A. Knott
----------------------------
Hi Wally,
I'm one of those faces you've seen in the crowd - love your music with Mr. Dave (unfortunately my only exposure to your music... so far) and enjoy seeing you two have fun together. I just learned of your health challenges, and I wanted to pass along my best wishes for a full and speedy recovery!!!! On his website, David mentions chemo - my wife is a cancer survivor, and I have known many others. I sincerely hope everything will work out well for you and that you will be in full health and happiness again very soon!!
Yours,
Mike
----------------------------
Dear Wally:
Just know that I am thinking of you in this difficult time.
Big hug,
Victoria
----------------------------
wally my brother........you are in my heart and prayers you are my connection to the sacred place of music and true friendship...much love T.
----------------------------
hey wallyllama
heard about your troubles and wanted to let u know I'm thinking of you and sending good vibes your way. you know I love you lots.
your friend,
Kim
----------------------------
Slow Dance

This is a poem written by a teenager with cancer. She wants to see how many people get her poem. It is quite a poem. Please pass it on. This poem was written by terminally ill young girl in a New York Hospital.

It was sent by a medical doctor - Make sure to read what is in the closing statement AFTER THE POEM.

SLOW DANCE

Have you ever watched kids

On a merry-go-round?

Or listened to the rain

Slapping on the ground?

Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight?

Or gazed at the sun into the fading night?

You better slow down.

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

Do you run through each day

On the fly?

When you ask How are you?

Do you hear the reply?

When the day is done!

Do you lie in your bed

With the next hundred chores

Running through your head?

You'd better slow down

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

Ever told your child,

We'll do it tomorrow?

And in your haste,

Not see his sorrow?

Ever lost touch,

Let a good friendship die

Cause you never had time

To call and say,"Hi"

You'd better slow down.

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

When you run so fast to get somewhere

You miss half the fun of getting there.

When you worry and hurry through your day,

It is like an unopened gift....

Thrown away.

Life is not a race.

Do take it slower

Hear the music

Before the song is over.
--------------------
FORWARDED E-MAILS ARE TRACKED TO OBTAIN THE TOTAL
COUNT.

Dear All: PLEASE pass this mail on to everyone you know - even to those you don't know! It is the request of a special girl who will soon leave this world due to cancer. This young girl has 6 months left to live, and as her dying wish, she wanted to send a letter telling everyone to live their life to the fullest, since she never will. She'll never make it to prom, graduate from high school, or get married and have a family of her own.

By you sending this to as many people as possible, you can give her and her family a little hope, because with every name that this is sent to, The American Cancer Society will donate 3 cents per name to her treatment and recovery plan. One guy sent
this to 500 people! So I know that we can at least send it to 5 or 6. It's not even your money, just your time!
----------------------------
Wally,
I'm so sorry to hear that you've got cancer problems. I sincerely hope you are recovering nicely. You're too good a man to leave us so early. Don't be like that Warren Zevon guy! My brother-in-law and a guy here at work both beat two of the more common forms of cancer so I'm hoping you add to the list of survivors I know.
Best wishes,
Mark Marksbary
Austin, TX
----------------------------
Wally - I'm sorry to hear that youre having to fight off a few curveballs. Just finished a few myself with some throat surgery that didnt go just right. So now im a 53 yr old criminal trial lawyer with a lisp...very impressive ." objecshion yo' honah" etc. i sound sort of like a cross between Barbara Walters and a wasted Jack Nicholson.... i will get a contribution out right away to help with those medical expenses. Make sure Dave records the benefit and sells it for much more than he should and those of us who cant get there (east coast, etc) can not only rock out in your honor but help support your recovery....good luck ,my brother, and keep smiling. If the Detroit Tigers can get into the world series, i have no doubt that you will soon be back banging some skin and amazing all of us... bob morecock
----------------------------
Wally

bangowango getwell delfango

hope you make a great recovery

david Penley
----------------------------
Wally,

Whenever I'm down, I listen to your and David's music. It picks me right back up again.

Hope this works for you, too.

"Strength to your sword arm!"

All the best,
Kevin
----------------------------
Just a fan from out here in the hinterlands of Michigan...sincerely wishing you a speedy recovery. MY thoughts and prayers are with you. All the best!!

Bob
----------------------------
Sorry to hear of your illness. Be strong, be positive and get well. Sending positive vibrations to you and your loved ones to get through these tough times!

Peace,
Les Talley
----------------------------
Dear Wally,

Not only have I enjoyed your great musicianship on David Lindley´s
records, I also had the great privilege to hear you in concert with
him in Oslo a few years back. Your intelligence, humour and
broad-mindedness seemed an example to be followed by people in all
walks of life - fearless muscians are sorely needed in this day and
age! We are many musicians and musiclovers over here in Norway who
are aware of your situation and we want you to get through your
illness, get yourself up on stage behind a drumkit again and kick some
serious butt again as soon as you feel up for it.

Kind regards in life and music,

Andreas Aase
----------------------------
Hi Wally,

I've read in an e-mail from David Lindley about your throat & neck cancer and
the chemotherapy treatment. I have seen you performing with Mr. Dave in
Erfurt/Germany about 3 years ago and I was very impressed (I'm a drummer,
too...). Great Concert!
I'm looking forward to see play like this again, so I sent you all the best
wishes to get healthy again and, according to the writing on the bracelets
shown on your website: "Beat it Wally!"
May my prayers be heard....

Best regards from Germany
Martin Hopfengart
----------------------------
Wally- hope all goes well - look forward to seeing you over in England with Mr. Dave supporting!.Once again - all the best for the future.

Charlie and Liz.
----------------------------
Dear Wally:
Just learned that you have undergone surgery and are about to start chemo from Dave's website. I have known too many loved one's who have been touched by these unjust diseases and have been pedaling for Team in Training and the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society ever since....did 3 100 mile bike races last year. Please know that your and Dave's music have brought me many smiles...many of which were while I was pedaling over the miles. (Ya know how certain songs have hooks and stick in one's head...well yours did over many a mile.) I will hold a good thought for you and yours in the days ahead. My son, too, is a drummer and just opened a drum shop in Stevens Point. I remember telling him of your playing and your storm trooper's helmet. Hope you're up and around and back in the saddle soon.
Keep bangin'/Gordon
----------------------------
Hallo Wally, ich möchte Dir eine schnelle Genesung wünschen, damit wir Dich schon bald wieder sehen und hören können. Wir vermissen Dich an der Seite von Mr. Dave. Ich selbst hatte vor kurzem eine Operation in der ein Tumor entfernt wurde. Zum Glück blieb mir eine Chemo-Therapie erspart da der Tumor gutartig war. Alles liebe und gute für Dich, Gruss

Peter
----------------------------
Wally:

Patty Van Saten, your neighbor in the desert, gave me your e-mail address and suggested that I give you a shout. A year ago, I finished my radiation and chemo treatments for almost the same cancer as you. I had mouth, neck and tongue. It is a real pain to go through, but the end is well worth the struggle. I have two teenage daughters that I wanted to be there for and so I never looked back once the process started. Patty said that you have great doctors at Cedars and a good support group around you. That will make all the difference in the world. Having friends and family cheering you on, especially in the tough times can not be underestimated. I found sometimes that I had to be the "up" one, especially with my girls, but that only goes to reinforce the drive to survive.

Hopefully you will forgive the intrusion, and my rambling, but I just wanted to let you know that there is a positive side to the struggle. If you should ever need an extra few words of encouragement, please feel free to contact me.

Best regards,

Tennyson
----------------------------
Hi and howdy - There will be a benefit for Wally Ingram at the Coach House on
Nov. 8, 2006. The lineup has not been finalized but I will be playing and World Anthem will be there. We're calling on the orange county USA Twango Bangoians to be there and support Wally while he's fighting the good fight. Tell all your friends and see you there. Mr. Dave

For additional information visit: http://www.davidlindley.com/
----------------------------
Wally,
Sorry to hear you've been in the hospital. I had no idea. I was diagnosed with leukemia myself, on Aug. 3rd, so I really feel for you. I won't be in chemo for a while, they say, so at least I still FEEL fine.
My thoughts & best wishes to you & I want to see you bangin' that drum again soon!
I hope to make the Coach House show.


Get well, Wally!
Waldo
----------------------------

Wally,

I hope you are feeling better and get well soon. I'd love to see you
and Mr. Dave play again. You guys are the greatest.

Take care.

--
Rod Dalager
----------------------------
Hallo Wally,
from Paula i got your bad news- what to say in such a situation? Always the unexpected shock and the not knowing for yourself and people around. me i went through a minor ordeal because of skin cancer, 2 operations but luckily nothing else so far for 4 years already. At least i don´t have the worries about a family. This just to tell you that my thoughts are with you and your family in these very difficult times and that i send extra energy, well being and strenght from Barcelona.
beat it !!!
muchos abrazos
Birgit
----------------------------
What a bummer! Hope all goes well and that you are able to come back stronger than ever. Stay positive and don't give up. I've had several family members beat cancer, so it CAN be done.

Greg
----------------------------

my thoughts are with you, I saw you with Mr. Dave several times, and when you guys did "Jah Reggae" it changed things forever!

sincerely Marcos.
----------------------------
Think of you and have good thoughts and blessings -
me - Kerstin - and - Alfred my husband - we enjoy you in
Germany .... Winterbach ... it was to be in another world ...
We so much want you to be ok again and that you can do what you want ...
nothing to do with the crazy financial world ... but that your
ok again - we hope that there is this magic energy that can help you!

Love and best thoughts and wishes

Kerstin and Alfred
----------------------------

Hi,
my name is Mathieu Robitaille. I first saw you play with Dave in Quebec city...a few years ago. I have since seen you guys in many venues, including the parish in New Orleans. I realy enjoy the music, it makes me feel great.

I have had health issues of my own since I was 14, and thinking positively always helps my body. Maybe paradoxal, but the simplest things make me happy when I face big difficulties. I don't know...I guess laughter and relaxation triggers some kind of chain reaction in me that really makes a difference on my physical medical tests...

Get well, stay strong.

Mathieu
----------------------------
Dear Wally,
I saw you some year ago in Chiari, Italy with David. Before that night I did not know anything about you and just a little about David but that concert was great! I still rember it as one of the best concert I ever seen.

I am very sorry about your illness and I can understand your feelings in this moment: my father is fighting the same battle.
Be strenght and never leave to fight!

I wish you good luck......and God bless you!


Marco Smellini
Monzambano, Italy
----------------------------
Our Ry Cooder group just got the news that you are now fighting the big fight. Altho' not one to plead with the alleged Big Diety hiding upstairs, my positive thoughts go out to you at this time. Get well, man. No one can make a chrome WW1 army helmet ring like you!


john harbick
New Westminster, BC Canada
----------------------------
Aloha from Haleiwa, Hawaii, Wally!

I saw from Dave's website that you've not been feeling too well. May God bless you in your recovery. We wish for you to feel much better really soon and look forward to your return to your regular routine.

Best wishes!

Eric Burgoyne
----------------------------
Mr.. Ingram,
I have enjoyed your style for many years. I have seen you many times performing with Mr.. Dave and have always had a rockin' good time!
Be strong and kick the crap out of this thing!!
Look forward to seeing you out in the Rockies again.


Joe Walker
----------------------------
With so many hands to hold your hands
With so many feet to walk with you
With so many hearts to feel your pain
With so many souls united in your love
I am sure, my dear,
We will win the battle
And lead our life
From falsehood to the truth
From darkness to light
And from the proud arrogant death to life
Full of beauty, love and goodness.

All my best wishes to you three- my dearest friends- Wally, Laurie and Lydia.
Ved
----------------------------
Dear Wally,

I´ve never seen you, but I´ve heard your music together with David Lindley so many times... My son

I wish you all the best and I will think of you in my (catholic) prayers every sunday on church.

With greetings from Stuttgart, Germany

God bless you

Michael
--------------------
Hi , sending some good vibes from Norway, get well!!!

the world need you to keep banging those helmets!

Arne R. Skage jr.
--------------------
Dear Wally and all,

Shout out, Peace and Blessings.

Whatever is to happen for Gator, count me in a big way.

Otherwise, Wally call sometimes if you can.

If a person can be measured by the quality of their friends and associates, then obviously Wally, you are way ahead of the game.

Sincerely,

Kevin O'Neal
--------------------

It is hard to know the right thing to say but hope you are doing the best you can. I have been one of your fans for along time. Back from the first Twango Bango days all the shows in Santa Barbara and Live Oak Music Fest. As a fellow drummer your style and attention to detail has always amazed me (and your kit). I like your style and want and need to see you play again.

Take your time and get better I know it has got to be very hard and scary. My thoughts are with you!

Peace and your fan,

mikeD
--------------------

Laurie,
I was so sad to hear of Wally's illness. Please let him know that he is regularly in our prayers. (I said a Mishaberach for him--that's a Jewish prayer for recovery--in Temple on Yom Kippur.) I know that the three of you will get through this, and that Wally will completely recover. You are very special people, and you deserve only the best. We think of you often and hope to see you in the near future.

Love,
Randy and Bob
--------------------

Dear Wally,
hope you fellin well and healing fast....peace,love and Reaggeemylytis!!!!


--------------------

Hello Wally,

More greetings from complete strangers - this time from Berlin.
Get well and back on stage soon. I know you will.

Kind regards,
Norbert
--------------------
Dear Wally,

Thanks for the kind words.

And for including me on the update list. I was very happy to see the news in bold print about the shrinking of the mass! I can tell that your positive attitude is for real, and trust you well know how crucial that is. And also that positive attitude isn’t simply about being up all the time, but having the wisdom to ride the down days with equanimity and, when possible, humor. Some people are able to seize the opportunity inherent in crisis and do the transformative alchemy. I think you may be one of those. Again, keeping you and your precious young family in mind.

Bob
--------------------
Hey-You were the drummer at my mother in laws breast cancer benefit.Jackie Fisher was her name .We are friends with Ron Pringle and Tommy fitzgerald. I am a 8 year survivor of melanoma.I was 25 when I got diagnosed and got the horrible news from the oncologist of what my statisics were.I left the office a mess.(Those people have the worst job ever,)I went home feeling like shit and crying to my husband, and then I said screw them. I changed my diet quit my recreational activities and decided to live.About six months later I got pregnant and we were so excited. The oncologist told me that this was my death wish that less than 33% of people in my case will survive pregnancy because of the melatonin leval.Anyways our son is five and great and I'm 8 years out.Don't listen to the bullshit statistics listen to what you know.Their are immune support supplements that the oncologists will tell you won't work but their not FDA approved!!!Also have they talked to you about interferon?Or theirs achemo they use for localized cancers that they inject with needles so the treatment infiltrates the malignant tissue only instead of circulating through the whole system.I Know A Dentist who had this treatment done who (was not suppost to survive) and his on his 4th year. Anyways we are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.Stay positive and keep on keeping on!!
Our whole family will be at your benefit concert at the coach house on Nov 8th.p.s. super human strength comes from your children.Peace and love from Cluny, April, and Riley Fisher Dana Point Ca.
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After keeping an eye on your Mom's emails, it's easy to see that you've got a wonderful group of people to support you during this difficult time and to keep you smiling on the journey of complete recovery.

Not much I can do for you here in Atlanta, but know that you are in my thoughts and prayers many times daily. If you think of anything I can do- please, let me know

It's been a long time my friend, but I have wonderful memories of times past. Those in Beloit and those elsewhere. Friends, Family, Football, Drums, Ray Nitshke, Farms, Beloit, San Diego, Charleston, Crow.
The list goes on. It's always been great knowing the Gator.

Hey, let's get our Packer helmets back on and give them a hand!! They could use some help.

I'll be waiting to hear more from your Mom.

Take care and of course, GET WELL SOON!

All the best Wally,

Chad Stanton
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Hope that you get well and can get back to playing on the road very soon!

John Sanders
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Hey Wally! Darla here (Jilly's friend)

I am sending you a ton of good healing energy for you and your family. I believe! I believe! I believe you will beat this!

Darla Harrah
--------------------
hello Wally
The whole world and my drums are playing for your healh.

sincearly from the big digger off your drums and mr. Dave's ouud.

Bent Solberg, dane in Sweden
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get well wally, we need you.

peter
southside sound
edmonton
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Wally,

We think of you often and pray for your speedy recovery. During this time when you are forced to take a break from your busy life, may you find joy in your beautiful wife and daughter. And may you some day look back on this as nothing more than a brief, bad experience. That is what we wish for you.
Love,

Randy and Bob

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You have been on my daily acknowledgement list ever since David Lindley told us of your challenge at the Millpond Music Festival in mid September. Please know that positive healing visions and thoughts are being put into the universe for you & your family from my spot in the Antelope Valley....or where ever I happen to be.

With light & love,
eugenia

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Wally,

My name is Charles Youel. I'm a friend of Dave Stanoch. We've never met, but I've seen you play with Dave Lindley on a couple occasions (and enjoyed the hell out of it every time).

I just wanted to let you know that I (and many, many, many others) are sending good vibes your way, along with prayers and anything else that might help you and your family right now.

I'll make a point of introducing myself the next time you're in town. Until them, stay strong and keep fighting. There's a lot of love for you out there.

Take care,
Charles Youel
--------------------
Hi Wally:

I’ve listened to your work and seen you with Mr. Dave. I just read on his site that you are apparently doing the cancer dance. Soooo Sorry to hear THAT, right?

so, I did the Hep C thing, and it worked. Different, i know, but all I know is be thankful for each day, and make sure to get some of da kine to help you through the rough parts. Make lots of plans about what you need to do after you finish the therapy, and only believe the provable parts of what your Docs tell you.

Best wishes, prayers, and meditations all heading towards you hoping to hlep you find a cure. BTW, funny movies help a lot. Watching them, that is.

Cheers,

Owen Walton
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Hey Brother,
Glad to know that you do check your email! Although I am so sorry to hear your news. I have a good buddy that will have his surgery for the same cancer on October 3rd. He is a guy I’ve known form the baseball league that I run here in South Redondo. He had a nasty looking shanker on his lip that would not go away. I told him to go get it checked out...he waited a bit too long. His prognosis is real good though. It seems like most skin cancers are very treatable. Unfortunately for us, cancer has been a part of our lives over the last 3 years. My brother-in-law had it on his tongue and it spread into the lymph nodes. My wife and I took care of him during his treatment. He is doing great and is 100% clear of cancer. One of the things that I researched was a good cancer treatment diet. Spending countless hours on the internet, emailing doctors, and over informing myself, I found out that a low acid diet is the best at aiding your body and cells to fight cancer. So meat and vegetables are very good during this time. Foods high in acid aren’t good. Also, soda’s are something you should avoid. These are just some helpful things for your body to feel its best and be it’s best during the treatments. Ask your doctors about a low acid diet and it’s benefits. My mom had breast cancer earlier this year. She had surgery and radiation and recovered fully from it. I can’t tell you the countless clients I have that have had or have cancer. It seems to be so common these days. If there is anything I can do for you...you let me know. I know you probably have a good support system with family and friends...you may feel bad in asking them for help...don’t feel bad in asking me to help you in any way. You just let me know.

Tim
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Wally - so glad to hear Day 1 went well. We really missed you in NYC.I had a great talk with the Colonel about you, life, and all that is good..he really loves you and so do the rest of us. Keep kickin ass brutha.

billy
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Hey Wally, Ranger Bob here. Just a quick note to say hope to see you soon. Millpond was fun, but you were surely missed. I don't know if David told you about the weather but it was cold and windy Friday. Mr Dave's sideburns and hair were standing straight up on end, kind of looked like a walking ball of old steelwool.Best wishes from all of us, Ranger Bob and family and friends.

--------------------
Hi Wally,
My name is Ron and I live on Long island. I've seen you play with D.L. at the Bottom Line, and the Stephen Talkhouse......Oh yeah, and at Jones Beach with Jackson, D.L., Bonnie, Shawn Colvin and Bruce Hornsby. As was the case when I first saw D.L., Strunz and Farah, and my first live indycar race, my jaw unhinged and dropped to the ground when I first saw your one of a kind percussive expertise and antics, not to mention your drum set. I play acoustic guitar and sing in a very modest local rock/pop band, and the lead guitar player and I recently had to break off from the drummer and bass player (the drummer was the main problem, but they came in as a set). I had such stress from the situation that I ruptured an artery in my heart, and had to get a stent installed (at age 38!!). One good thing was that the surgeon's assistant was smokin' hot. It took the stent and a new drummer to make me feel like a new man....WAHOOO!. Wally, keep the faith, listen to doctor's orders, and don't go back to work too early.

Wishing you a quick and comfortable recovery,

Ron
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Hey man, I am so sorry to hear of your illness and surgery. I wish you a quick recovery so you can get back out and play. I have seen you play with Mr Dave numerous times at the catalyst in Santa Cruz, and other places around the Bay area. You are one of the most amazing Drummers/percussionists I have ever seen. You are a truly gifted player.

Get Well soon!

a fan-Doug Van Dolen in Santa Cruz.
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From: Steve Champion

Get Well Wally!

Western KY fans send their well wishes and prayers
your way!

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hi wally , my name is mike and i am a huge music fanand hobbist musician.i have seen you drum with david lindley.i think that you are a bas ass drummer. please get wellsoon and you are in my thoughts and prayers. mike johnson.
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From: "squane"

hey wally!...you don't know me,and i don't know you...but that doesn't mean we aren't best friends....ahem...seriously though,i didn't know ye were having problems...what's the deal?...i've never had the pleasure of meeting you but if you're a friend of Dave's,etc....whatever the deal is,i sincerely hope you get better,punish that disease!~...you have to approach it like College Football!...punish,ridicule,and humiliate the disease!....fuck with it unmercifully,until it eventually breaks down in a stuttering rage and turns to jelly...i fell these things are Pure Wisdom,Wally...fell?...hell yeah,i fell,i must have,or else i wouldn't have worn that goddamn arm sling to the Florida-Alabama game yesterday...i felt like a crack whore,sitting out there on the concrete slab where the smokers congregate,all alone except for the P.A...we eventually won,but i still was forced to slap a young teenager on the side of the head,on basic principle alone...He Had It Coming,Wally.....his pants were on backwards and he was wearing an Olivia Newton John T-Shirt,and by God there are some things that will drive even a sane man,like you and me,Wally,to extremes...i slapped him hard on the temple and stole his wallet,flipping through the kind of cards you'll find in the billfolds of the Rabble: Ted's Snake Shack....Bob's Bun Warmers....Dave's House of Unpronouncable Diseases...Wally's Wild and Wacky Wall of Wallets...
i knew it was You,Wally...i had seen the wall of wallets years before,in Hong Kong....after a bribe of $6 and a Kool Filter King,the proprieter finally confessed that she was indeed your first franchisee,as it were,and fell into a slobbering heap when i leaned on her for more straight poop...
she told me,Wally,about how she glommed on to the first Wallet franchise in the first place...she caught you masturbating in the shower,and when quizzed,you replied,"It's my soap,and my peter,and I'll wash it just as fast as I want to!"
These are ugly things,Wally....a man like me,armed with that kind of information,could Go Far.....Keep that in mind....

Bruce in High Springs,Fl.....
--------------------
hi wally,
just got on dave's website and saw the note about your surgery and
going to start chemo. my wife lee anna and i wish you well, and
that you have a speedy recovery. we saw you a couple of times with
dave at the grand emporium in k.c. and thought you are great.
anyway, here's to seeing you up and back on the road as soon as possible.
maybe you and dave can get together again and do a "Wally and Dave-
Alive and Well and kicking some ass!" tour.
hope to see you soon,
bye for now.
Charlie and Lee Anna Bagley
Kansas City, KS.

--------------------
From: "Tony Abbott"

Hey Wally,

Best wishes for a quick recovery........ somebodies gotta keep Dave on the straight and narrow. If that's at all possible. And hey we're still awaiting a return visit to these far flung shores of New Zealand.

All the very best,

Tony Abbott
--------------------
From: "Harrison Withers"

Wally,

Get well soon so I can hear you hit that army helmet a few more times!

Harrison
--------------------
From: "Lard"

Hi Mr Wally,

Get well real soon mr

big love

Ian , Margaret and Nathan Vines in the UK
Fan of yours and Mr Dave
--------------------
From: "Judy Sides"

Hey Wally,
Just stumbled on news of your illness on David Lindley's web site. I sure do hate to hear about what you are going through.
I myself, just survived an awful cancer deal. Well, I learned that it's just another thang'. Good luck to you and great speed in recovering.
I also wanted you to know how much I have enjoyed your work! I have danced many a jig to you and David.
Thanks so much.....looking forward to more to come.
Will keep you in my thoughts.......

Judy Sides
--------------------
From: "Per Lundmark"

Wally!
Hope you get well soon, You Blue Cloud!
A fan from Sweden
Per Lundmark
--------------------
From: Earl Thomas

Hi Wally,
Just a note to say thanks again for great time in the studio and I want to wish you well in your upcoming challenges with chemotherapy. All the best to you my friend. I'll look forward to some shows down the road...
Always,
Earl Thomas
--------------------
From: Chris Hudson
Subject: Good to See You

Dude! I wish I had some of your personality...

Love - C

Check out the pics.....


-------------------------
Wally, Laurie, Lydia,

Just wanted to wish you the Best of Luck on Monday when you start the treatment and to applaud your very positive attitude. If attitude counts for anything - and I'm sure it does - I think you have the battle half won. As you said in your email this is the toughest challenge you have faced in your 44 years and I feel confident that you are ready to take it on and win.

We will all be keeping our fingers crossed that Monday will not be too bad. You seem to have a lot of confidence in your Dr.s and the hospital and that is good.

Best of luck and we will wait to hear the latest.

Love,
Gaye and the Phoenix contingent
-------------------------
From: "Greg Fletcher"

Wally,

We hope you have a speedy and painless recovery.. Get well soon!

Your music is an inspiration, your enthusiastic performances a wonder to watch and listen to! We listen to you and David Lindley every day! Man, we ain't kidding! What a marriage!

Waybyond loves Wally Ingram!

Best regards,

Greg Fletcher and Jeni Quayle
Waybyond
Northland
-------------------------
From: Cecy Jones

LOVE you Darlin" we are with you all the way! Lots of tipulence prayers being sent from SF xoxxooxocecy

-------------------------
From: "Thomas Engelman"

Wally,
For some reason I'm remembering these words JP wrote about Bobby. And I'm sure you're in his thoughts now as well as ours...

"Wednesdays child is full of woe
Strap on a weapon and hes ready to roll
Wind him up and watch him go
From the spit in his teeth to the gum on his sole"
You're in the circle
Circle of LOVE
And to lighten the mood, here's Willie Nelson's thoughts on spinach...
"It's a good thing I had a bag of marijuana instead of a bag of spinach, or else I'd be dead by now."
xx,
Tom
-------------------------
From: "Leon Bristow"

yeah mon. gicante,glenn hartman, mkabob, derek and Iself played a
party on sat and we called ourselves " Invoking Ingram". I'm playing
in fairfax on the 6th w/ glenn and maybe the rest so Invoking Ingram
rides again! Arribba!

-------------------------
From: "Matteo The Stoitch"
Subject: From Italy

Hi Wally!
I'm Matteo from Italy. Everybody calls me The Stoitch, so please call me Stoitch.
I think you're a great artist. I play elettric and acustic guitar in a only-voice-guitar-'n-drums band. I enjoy your style, your sense of rithm, your fantasy. What you've done with David in all this year is a enduring help for me... It gives me hispitation, every day, in every way. Really.
So I really think you're a great artist.
I don't konw you personally, but I now very well which kind of moments you are passing. I know you are also a great man, so be a great strong man! Hold on.
And the next time I'll see you on the stage, in Italy.

With all my heart: hold on.

Ciao.

Stoitch
-----------------------------------
Wally,

I've seen Dave and you a couple of times, most recently several years back at the Experience Music Project (the blob) in Seattle. Killer show, but what I'll always remember is that you guys spent time talking with the three of us (musicians who all play together) after and you both signed and gave us your set list. I've still got it.

Hang in there and best of luck. I'll be thinking of you and sending positive energy your way.

James Barkshire (a fan)
-----------------------------------
From: Greg Marsh
Subject: Healing Ocean

Hang in there Bud,
we're with you.
R&R on Maui...
Healing Ocean.






-----------------------------------
From: Joan Lindley

We will send out to our mail list we will get a lot of mail and donations to a HEALTH
Heal thyself fund for you Wally. You need no stress to get well. I am dizzy right now and walking crooked. What is up with that?

We are mortal coils , but my Dad at age 84 has missed 3 bullets in the last 10 years including a 7 hr brain surgery. Prostate cancer gone.
I said to Lauire before Rosanne new beau-friend his guitar player in a Django group had exact same thing and is playing gigs now and sems healthy again.

Love, Me