On Friday July 14, I was sitting at a bar called The Clubhouse celebrating my best friend’s surprise birthday party.  My phone beeped and I saw that I had an email.

Upon checking the email I learned that some sad news was coming out the The Donnas camp. Drummer Torry Castellano has been forced to retire her craft due to medical problems involving her shoulder and arms.

For anyone who follows The Donna’s closely like I do this came as a mild shock. Torry’s arm problems prevented her from touring with the band last year and have given her grief for some time. Despite many attempts to repair her arm surgically and through physical therapy, it was decided that the safest option would be to simply stop.

In a farewell letter to her fans on the band’s website she writes:

As I am still in pain, my doctors have come to the conclusion that I cannot play the drums anymore because if I continue I will be in pain for the rest of my life. After much thought and many conversations with the other girls I have decided I have to retire. My retirement has brought me a lot of sadness because I love playing the drums and being a part of the Donnas’ family, which of course includes all of you.

The Donnas began in 1993 when Torry and the girls (Bret Anderson, Maya Ford and Allison Robertson) were 13 years old. Since then they have had several hit albums and singles, toured all over the world and launched their very own record label, Purple Feather.

Torry’s leaving the band brings up the obvious question as to who will fill the permanent seat for the rock band. No news of that yet.

The Donnas have been one of my favorite rock bands for many years and now my favorite member is stepping down. It is a sad day for rock music, people. A sad day.

To read the full letter from Torry visit the home page of TheDonnas.com

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