In late 2016, Andy was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer, which has a 6% 5-year survival rate. Andy took that diagnosis as a catalyst to seize the day... however many days he had left... and within 2 years, he released his first album of original music, enrolled and completed a graduate-level certificate in executive coaching, and became determined to remain focused on only what mattered most in his life... and let all the other details go.
Thanks to excellent treatment at the Mayo Clinic, and the power of support and prayers from countless friends and family members, Andy is still here, headed toward that 5 year mark since diagnosis. He is committed to sharing his story with anyone who may be inspired and helped by it.
** NEW! ** Andy featured on the "Dreamology" Podcast
Tim Bishop is a precociously wise podcaster and entrepeneur, and co-founder of Dreamology: The Dreamers Initiative, aimed at Gen Z and Millenials, but inspirational to us all. Tim's interview with Andy was recently published, and we are excited to share it here! Listen to the podcast and learn more about The Dreamers Initiative HERE and HERE.
LISTEN to the podcast HERE!
"The Gifts of Cancer" Newspaper Story
Interview with WTIP Public Radio
Andy and son, Alex, were interviewed by Will Moore of WTIP, in Grand Marais, Minnesota, in August of 2019.
Will wrote:
Father and son duo Andy and Alex Nelson of Savage, MN join Will Moore on the Scenic Route. Andy, a trumpeter, tells the story behind his album Meaning to Tell You, a jazz record that was released last year and was produced during his own serious battle with cancer. Alex meanwhile plays saxophone, and also is an electronic artist creating songs under the name Alex Mavi. Together they share in a heartfelt discussion about illness, creativity, and the power of playing music together as a family
