Cancer Sucks at the Cain's

It is a disease that strikes too many people in this world.  Those who are close to us, related to, work with or it may even be you but there is no mistaking that Cancer Sucks! 

Cancer Sucks is a local charity organization with one goal in mind, kicking the crap out of the disease.  Rick Horton founded Cancer Sucks in 1998 following the loss of his mother, Donna Holland White, who died of brain cancer.

Saturday's Cancer Sucks concert was the fifth year for the event. This year's headliner was national act Rev Theory, riding high on the heels of the hit song, "Far From Over."  The organization touts a catch phrase of "Charity with Attitude" this is spot on based on the event put on by the Cain's Ballroom.  More biker rally than concert, there were plenty of different people to look at and give a chuckle too.  There were definite hints of irony in play also, for instance the smoking area was packed in between sets with fans quick to light up, also it would seem that cancer is the prime enemy, but they are not too concerned about liver damage with all of the beer and booze.  Just an observation.

The event was an all day affair kicking off at 5:30 pm Saturday night and going throughout the rest of the evening.  10 different bands donating their time and talent for the cause graced the stage. 

The local line-up of music, which includes Sweatin' Bullets, Pedal Point, Chuck Cooley and the Demon Hammers. Cooley played from a bar stool and at one point stated that he had a cancerous growth taken out of his leg earlier in the year.  Cancer Treatment Centers and KMOD provided major sponsorship, with Lynn Hernandez from KMOD serving as emcee. 

This event and organization take charity to another level in that it is very informal and allows all walks of life to get involved in some way.  There are no black-ties required and it is very low key.  Last year, Cancer Sucks donated more than $50,000 to cancer research to the Gateway for Cancer Research, this year looks to be a banner year also with all of the proceeds from the benefit show going to cancer research, as well as, some of the bands donating part of the proceeds of their t-shirt and CD sales for the night to Cancer Sucks.

Cancer Sucks invited participants to enjoy the night while helping support an important cause. During the concert event, participants had the chance to win auction items such as floor seats to the KISS Dec. 8 concert at the BOK Center and autographed music memorabilia. There were also authographed guitars, and photos.

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Photos: Kevin Pyle

To learn more about this charity visit:  www.cancersucks.com