Drivers offer well wishes to Steve Byrnes during cancer battle

By foxsports
Published

NASCAR is supporting Steve Byrnes in his cancer battle, as Sunday's race at Bristol was renamed in honor of the FOX anchor.

And before the race, some of NASCAR's most popular drivers sent their well wishes to Byrnes, who undoubtedly will be watching Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on FOX. Check out their messages in the video above.

"You're the modern day Ken Squier," Denny Hamlin said, referring to the Hall of Fame NASCAR broadcaster. "Come back. Come back to us just as soon as you can."

Dale Earnhardt Jr. said: "Thank you for being such a great friend to my entire family —€” my father, myself. Going through this battle you're an inspiration to me and everyone you've ever met ... and a lot of people you haven't met.

"So keep fighting. We pray for you every day, buddy."

Others are getting on board, too: 

The longtime NASCAR reporter and analyst is battling head-and-neck cancer and has remained strong and determined throughout his fight.

Sunday's race at Bristol has been named the Food City 500 In Support of Steve Byrnes and Stand Up To Cancer, many teams are running Byrnes' name above their doors and every team is running a special decal featuring his initials.

Thrivent Financial, sponsor on Michael McDowell's No. 95 Levine Family Racing Ford, announced it will donate $9,500 to Stand Up To Cancer in honor of Byrnes.