CT Musician Faces Second Cancer Battle As Community Rallies To Help

BETHANY, CT — Community members are coming together to support a Connecticut musician as he faces a second battle with cancer and a lengthy recovery.

Travis Branch, the lead guitarist of the Bethany-based Fleming Jenkins Band and co-owner of The Recording Den, was scheduled to undergo major surgery Nov. 9 after cancer returned in his larynx, according to a GoFundMe campaign.

The procedure was expected to permanently change how Branch speaks, eats and navigates everyday life, with extensive medical care and rehabilitation ahead.

“Some people make music. Some people bring people together. Travis has spent his life doing both,” the fundraiser states.

According to the campaign, Branch first battled cancer in 2015. Earlier this year, after experiencing persistent throat pain, a biopsy confirmed that the cancer had returned.

He underwent chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and doctors could no longer visually identify the tumor in July, according to the fundraiser. However, additional testing indicated that the cancer had progressed, prompting his medical team to recommend major surgery.

The illness has also affected his ability to work.

Branch co-owns The Recording Den, a recording studio in Bethany that serves local artists and musicians. The business is his primary source of income, according to the fundraiser.

Treatment, exhaustion and frequent trips to Boston have made it difficult to maintain normal operations, adding financial strain as Branch faces a lengthy recovery.

The fundraiser seeks donations to help cover medical-related expenses, transportation, household bills, food and other essential costs.

Despite the challenges, the campaign describes Branch as maintaining his humor and positive outlook.

“We don't know exactly what the road ahead will look like,” the organizers wrote. “We do know that Travis has people he loves, things he still wants to experience, and so much more life he wants to live.”

Supporters can contribute to the fundraiser or share the campaign to help spread the word.

Visit the GoFundMe here.