Rewiring My Rhythm: A Musician's Journey Back from the Brink
Hard Work, Your Prayers, and a Grammy Surprise: My Survivor Story
It was May 2nd, 2022, in Palos de la Frontera, a place where Columbus once looked towards a new world. During the Covid outbreak, evenings here were marked by people on balconies applauding healthcare workers. I, too, would go to my balcony, playing a blues-infused "Ave Maria" on my alto saxophone, and the people in the street would applaud. My promoter, Luis Manjares of http://www.conciertosdelnorte.com/ had booked me for a series of lucrative Christmas concerts in amazing halls with a great band, all Spanish players assembled by Gecko Turner. A well-known artist on the Spanish music scene.A well-known artist on the Spanish music scene.
Then, three years ago (2022), after a year following the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, I suffered a stroke. The diagnosis in Huelva took three days, and I was transferred to a hospital in Seville. My wife Maria was with me. Coming out of surgery, my memory was gone, but I surprised them by singing "Maria." The surgery involved a stent in my neck artery.
It's been almost two years since, and while I can't yet play saxophone, I'm working on recovery through neuroplasticity, inspired by Joni Mitchell. Piano is challenging; pressing keys is easier than lifting them, and my ring and middle fingers struggle with chords. Music theory remains clear in my mind. I connected with a South African jazz pianist facing his own challenges, a testament to music's power. Physiotherapy is ongoing, with Maria now leading my sessions.
Three years ago, when the stroke happened, a GoFundMe was set up, which has been life-saving thanks to many, including unexpected donations from famous singers and ordinary folks. I am forever grateful for this support and your prayers, alongside my hard work and dedication to recover.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/how-a-lifetime-musician-became-a-stroke
In the first round of the 2024 Grammy nominations, I received a HUGE surprise: nominations for Best New Artist at 72 and Best Americana Album.
Some tracks were pre-stroke, others recorded after with my left hand and producer Bruce Kaphan (Chris Isaak, David Byrne, Jewel), featuring guitarist Garth Webber (formerly with Miles Davis). You can stream or download the album on Bandcamp:
I have many new tunes in progress, waiting for completion. My voice and left hand is strong, but my signature sound needs all ten fingers. While I can't perform yet, your continued support and well wishes mean the world and fuel my hope to make more music.
Much love, John Lee Sanders
https://www.gofundme.com/f/how-a-lifetime-musician-became-a-stroke