Tom “TC” Constanten Faces Lung Cancer Battle with Support from Grateful Dead Fans

Former Grateful Dead keyboardist Tom “TC” Constanten is now in the fight of his life—this time against lung cancer. At 80 years old, the legendary musician is facing not only serious health concerns but also mounting medical bills. Now, the same community that once embraced his experimental sound is rallying behind him with unwavering support and generosity.

A Legacy in Sound: From Avant-Garde to Psychedelic

TC’s time with the Grateful Dead—from 1968 to 1970—was short but impactful. He brought a classically trained, avant-garde edge to the band’s most experimental work, especially the iconic albums Anthem of the Sun and Aoxomoxoa. These records—fused with layered sounds, electronic effects, and philosophical themes—still stand out in the Grateful Dead’s discography.

Constanten’s artistry was unique. Drawing influence from the likes of John Cage and Karlheinz Stockhausen, he transformed the keyboard into an instrument of innovation. His contributions helped shape the group’s early identity as pioneers of improvisational and psychedelic music.

A Health Crisis: Tom Constanten’s Lung Cancer Diagnosis

This summer, Constanten was diagnosed with lung cancer. While no longer touring, he’s undergoing intense and expensive treatment that includes MRIs, radiation, and advanced scans. The financial toll has been overwhelming. Just the co-pays—at $250 per visit—are straining his resources.

To help ease the burden, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by longtime friend Greg Martens, initially targeting $45,000. That goal was reached within days, prompting an increase to $50,000. Contributions continue to flow in, showing just how deeply TC is loved by his fans and peers.

Sweet Relief and Musical Solidarity

The Sweet Relief Musicians Fund also stepped up, creating an additional avenue for fans and supporters to help. The organization has long helped career musicians in crisis, and they’re now accepting donations for TC via PayPal and check.

The outpouring of love has not gone unnoticed. In a message shared through the fundraiser, TC expressed heartfelt gratitude:

“Over the years I have experienced such generosity that it boggles the mind. I count my wealth in friends, and it’s a blessing I’d never want to trade away.”

A Life of Artistic Courage

Long before his time with the Dead, TC was pushing musical boundaries. He met Phil Lesh while studying at UC Berkeley, bonding over their shared love of experimental sound. That friendship would later land him in the Dead’s lineup—his first show with them coming just one day after leaving the Air Force.

After parting ways with the band in 1970, TC kept evolving. He collaborated with Jefferson Starship, Jazz Is Dead, Dose Hermanos, and even pursued solo work that blended music, spoken word, and live improvisation. His dedication to creative expression never faded.

How Fans Can Help

If you’d like to support Tom Constanten in his lung cancer battle, here are three ways to help:

• Donate to his GoFundMe campaign.
  
• Contribute through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund in his name.
  
• Share his story with fellow Deadheads, musicians, and anyone touched by his music.
  

Final Note

TC’s journey has always been about exploration, risk, and expression. As he faces this new and deeply personal challenge, his community is showing up in full force—just like he showed up for them through decades of groundbreaking music. His fight against lung cancer is a sobering reminder of the fragility behind even the boldest voices, but also a testament to the strength of community and love that endures.