Due to ongoing health concerns, and following what had been an extremely difficult year, with many missed rehearsals and one missed band weekend, Kevin Hayward announced to the band in late April his decision to resign as CSB bandmaster at the end of July. It was not a decision made lightly, but one made necessary for the sake of Kevin’s future health and the ongoing future and stability of the band.

It all started shortly after the 2005-2006 season began in September of last year, when Kevin was rushed to the hospital for what was first thought to be a heart attack. While this was not the case, he was eventually diagnosed with an erratic heartbeat, although the root cause was unknown. His heartbeat was re-set with a defibrillator and he was sent home with medication and regular monitoring.

Kevin made it through the Christmas season, but then in January he was rushed to the hospital for a second time, unfortunately having to miss the band retreat with Peggy Thomas. His heart was shocked once more, but the treatment left him ill and he was increasingly feeling sluggish and tired.

Three months later, and following more medical tests, it was determined that stress could easily trigger another episode. With that in mind, and after much prayer, Kevin made the difficult decision to resign as bandmaster at the end of July. Although disappointed at not being able to continue, he felt a sense of peace and would rely on God’s strength to get him through the rest of the season.

Kevin was able to fulfil remaining commitments for the band’s 37th anniversary festival in May and the Newfoundland Provincial Congress in June. Regrettably, however, he was unable to accompany the band to the camp meetings at Old Orchard Beach, Maine, in July.

Members of the CSB, including Kevin, are grateful for those who stepped into the gap during the past year to provide leadership, particularly former Deputy Bandmaster Steve Brown who led the band in Burlington, Ont., in April, as well as at Old Orchard Beach. We also thank former bandmasters Brian Burditt and Colonel Robert Redhead who both came to conduct rehearsals in Kevin’s absence earlier in the year.

In August, Kevin left his position at THQ as assistant secretary for music and gospel arts, and now works as a teacher for the Toronto District Christian High School. He continues to attend East Toronto Citadel with his wife, Carolyn, and their three young children.

The members of the Canadian Staff Band are grateful for Kevin’s four years of leadership and pray God’s blessing on him as he continues to minister in other avenues of service.
- Major Ken Smith