Toby Keith, the legendary country music icon and recipient of the People’s Choice Country Icon Award, is not only known for his music but also for his unwavering faith. At 62 years old, Keith has faced numerous challenges, including a stomach cancer diagnosis in June 2022. However, he remains hopeful and relies on his faith to anchor him during difficult times.
When asked about his condition, Keith reassured his fans that he’s doing “alright.” He credits his faith as his rock and says, “I just pray and lean into it… You gotta’ do what you gotta’ do, and I don’t know how people do it without faith.”
Despite his health battle, Keith is looking forward to returning to the stage in the fall, as long as “everything goes good.” The thought of performing again brings him joy and a sense of fulfillment, especially after 30 years of writing songs and entertaining his fans.
Receiving the Country Icon Award was a surreal experience for Keith. He described it as “pretty crazy” and reflected on how quickly the years have flown by. Blake Shelton, an old friend of Keith’s, presented him with the award at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. The choice of Shelton as the presenter was significant to Keith, as they share a special bond and kinship.
During his acceptance speech, Keith expressed gratitude to his family, fans, and God for granting him the honor. He then gave a heartfelt performance of his song “Don’t Let the Old Man In,” showcasing his resilience and passion for music.
The support and admiration for Keith were evident throughout the evening. Little Big Town and Dustin Lynch, fellow musicians, praised his talent and referred to him as one of their heroes. Keith’s impact extends beyond his music, as he has been a staunch advocate for families battling cancer. In 2004, he co-founded Ally’s House, a nonprofit organization that helps children with cancer and their families. The organization was named after Allison Webb, the daughter of one of Keith’s band members, who sadly lost her life to kidney cancer.
In 2006, Keith established the Toby Keith Foundation, which is devoted to improving the lives of pediatric cancer patients. His dedication to supporting those affected by cancer is a testament to his compassionate nature and desire to make a difference.
As Toby Keith faces his own health challenges, his faith and resilience continue to inspire. His journey reminds us of the importance of holding onto faith in times of adversity and the power of music to heal and uplift. Toby Keith’s story serves as a reminder that no matter the obstacles we face, faith can anchor us and help us navigate through the storm.
