John “Jay” McCaffrey is a very talented musician and has been a staple and in-demand bassist in the Jersey Shore music scene for decades. He has played with bands such as Exxplorer (with whom he toured Germany), Slum Lordz (who has a new EP out now), Drifter, Metal Finger, Devils Harvest, Chronic Breakjob, Joe Poss & the Satanics, Psycho Daisy, Tribe, Elysium, Skullshifter, etc. Plus, Jay has jammed, guest played, and supported so many other bands and musicians.
Jay has been battling cancer for a long time and unfortunately there has been some changes in the past year. Jay battled multiple myeloma (bone cancer) for ten years and went through rounds and rounds of chemo and received a stem cell transplant.
His cancer was in remission when he received the unfortunate news that he now has stage 4 throat cancer. This cancer has since spread to his lungs, lymph nodes, and liver. He has started chemo again when he is strong enough but has come down with pneumonia recently.
I have known and been friends with Jay for over 30 years. Anyone who knows Jay knows what an amazing friend, son, brother, partner, and musician Jay is. They also know that Jay is a true warrior. In the words of his sister Diane, “Jay loves living his life with his long-time love Cindi and he is the best brother. I have never seen anyone fight so hard to live and he makes my heart smile.”
It is very important to Jay that the expenses his family incurs down the line do not cause any burden to them. Therefore, we are raising money to honor our friend Jay and to help take care of his family. All donations no matter the size is very much appreciated. Please share this with as many friends and family as possible. Jay is a true warrior.
Jay’s main concern at this time is that there not be financial burden to his family down the line. This fundraiser is to fulfill his wish and to show Jay how much he is loved and supported. We are so grateful and appreciative for any and all donations. Please share with everyone whose been blessed to know and love Jay.
In addition, a benefit concert is being arranged for Jan on Saturday February 18th at the Jackson New Jersey Moose Lodge. Jay is very excited. There will be several bands, jams, and a great time with so many whose lives have been touched by Jay. We hope to see you there!