The reason we had to cancel the tour and come home, is that Dave, our brilliant front man, found out that he has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer. A few months ago, in the middle of our steamrolling, never-ending tour cycle, running from Warped Tour in June through Christmas, Dave started feeling discomfort in his throat, both on and off stage. When it steadily got worse, he called on his doctor. X-rays were taken, "something" was found, a biopsy was performed, but throughout Dave was strong, upbeat, and confident that it was nothing. The rest of us agreed, and so the band played on.

However, about a week ago in Spain, he got the news that it was cancer, and that his thyroid would need to be removed. So the obvious decision was to get Dave home, so he can focus and prepare for this new hurdle put in front of him. Now, we have been told that thyroid cancer is VERY, VERY, VERY TREATABLE. He will have an operation to remove his thyroid, and the doctors are BEYOND confident that all the cancer will be removed with this procedure. It will be a few months recovery time, maybe more, but rest assured that Dave will do all he can to overcome this obstacle, kick it in the ass, and be back on stage before y'all know it!

Myself and the rest of Big D ask that you all remain supportive, but give Dave the time and privacy so he, and his family can work this all out. We've seen the huge outpouring of fans' support on our website, Facebook, Friendster, etc., as you all, OUR fans, prove again to be the best of the best!

We will keep you updated with Dave's progress, as well as changes that may be necessary involving our upcoming and future shows. Be positive, be patient, keep Dave in your thoughts, and soon we will share the great news with you all that this battle has been won, and put in the past. Thank you Big D fans for your support, understanding, sympathy, kindness, and we'll talk to you all soon!

-Ryan / Big D