Dawn Sears

There are many -- too many -- country stars who have had cancer or have been personally affected by it in some way.

Country vocalist Dawn Sears, a member of the Grammy-nominated Time Jumpers and backup singer for Vince Gill, has passed away at the age of 53, after a battle with lung cancer.

Dawn Sears, a member of the Grammy-nominated band the Time Jumpers, has been diagnosed with Stage 3B lung cancer. Sears, who is also a longtime member of Vince Gill's touring band, and an in-demand background vocalist is currently undergoing treatment in Nashville...

The Time Jumpers' now-legendary Monday night residency at Nashville's quaint Station Inn is a thing of the past. The exuberant 11-member Western swing outfit, featuring country superstar Vince Gill among its ranks, can be found that night at the more spacious 3rd and Lindsley a short distance away...