Jody McBrayer to leave Avalon because of health issues

AFTER nearly 12 years with award-winning vocal group Avalon, founding member Jody McBrayer steps down due to pressing health issues. The group, although saddened by McBrayer's departure, will continue to record albums and tour nationally. In March, McBrayer was diagnosed with a heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The disease, although manageable, often affects an individual's ability to undertake physical work, as in McBrayer's case. After much prayer and lengthy discussions with his family, doctors and the members of Avalon, McBrayer will resign from Avalon, focusing on his health and his family's welfare. "The past 12 years have been such a tremendous blessing, and I am thankful for the opportunities I've been given as part of this amazing group," says McBrayer. "While the decision to leave Avalon saddens me, I feel that it is necessary in order to prolong my health both for myself and my family. I am so thankful for the love and support that my family has received from Janna, Greg and Melissa through this challenging time in our lives." Currently McBrayer, who in 2002 recorded the critically acclaimed solo album 'This Is Who I Am', is in the recording studio with Avalon working on an album set for September release. The project will be a collection of classic CCM covers including Amy Grant's "El Shaddai", Steven Curtis Chapman's "For The Sake Of The Call" and First Call's "The Reason We Sing". McBrayer will travel with Avalon through the end of 2007 on its 40-city autumn tour.