After nearly 12 years with award-winning vocal group Avalon, founding member Jody McBrayer will step down due to health issues, according to the group's label, Sparrow Records. The group, though, will continue to record albums and tour nationally.

Currently, McBrayer is in the studio recording his last record with Avalon, which is slated to release this September. McBrayer will travel with the group through the end of the year on its 40-city fall tour.

In March, McBrayer was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Although manageable, the heart condition often affects an individual's ability to undertake physical work, Sparrow Records said.

After prayer and discussions with his family, doctors and the members of Avalon, McBrayer decided to resign from Avalon to focus on his health and his family's welfare.

“I am saddened to see Jody leave Avalon,” said Avalon's Janna Long. “He has walked this amazing road with me from the very beginning. And while we will all miss him tremendously as an outstanding vocalist and friend, I know it is in his best interest to step down and take care of himself.”