Cancer is a six-letter word which strikes everyone at their core, bringing forth a plethora of emotions with just a mention of the possibility of the horrific disease.
Fear, despair, anger, and shock are just a few of the emotions commonly associated with the despicable disease which seems to in one way or the other affect everyone at some point in their life. While the diagnosis of a Speedwell, Tennessee teen no doubtingly struck these emotions in his friends and family, a different set of emotions – compassion, sympathy, and empathy, can be felt as musicians from two states have pulled together to help the boy and his family.
Tyler Nelson was recently diagnosed with osteosarcoma — the most common type of cancer that develops in bone.
Nelson was an avid soccer player at the time of his diagnosis. What was thought to be possibly a sports-related injury after complaints of knee pain came after practice one day ultimately led to the discovery of a tumor on the young man’s femur.
Nelson’s parents sought a pediatrician’s referral so that he may see a sports medicine specialist. The specialist ordered an MRI after a suspicious X-Ray result. The radiologist’s report of the MRI was returned with frightening words attached. The report detailed how a tumor had obliterated Nelson’s femur and was most likely an aggressive type of cancer called osteosarcoma.
Given the report, the decision was made to seek treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. On May 10, Nelson was diagnosed with osteosarcoma of his of distal femur. Nelson and his mother are at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital where he is undergoing treatment.
When word of the young man’s diagnosis spread throughout the music community, a fundraiser quickly took shape as seasoned musicians in the local band Malachi reached out to up-and-coming artists and a band who has a member related to Nelson to plan a downtown evening full of music in an effort to help raise money for all of the expenses related to the treatment plan which has been put into place to ensure Nelson wins his battle against cancer. While there is no charge for the event, donations of all sizes are appreciated. Additionally, those involved with the event say it is just as important to have a large crowd at the concert, showing support for Nelson as he continues on in his battle.
Music will begin in the city parking lot at 6 p.m. on Saturday as teenage talent Chenoa Partin takes the stage. More teenage talent follows at 6:30 p.m. as Corey Evans performs. Local band Malachi is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. before Wake Up Sunday finishes out the night at 8 p.m.
Concert-goers should bring a lawn chair or blanket if they would like to sit during the show.
If all goes as planned with his current treatment plan, Nelson will get to be at the concert.
Those interested in helping with the fundraiser can contact Eddie Harrell at 606-269-9492.
For more information about Nelson or to make a donation, visit http://madeyoulookmg.wixsite.com/helptylerkickcancer
Reach Reina P. Cunningham at 606-302-9091 or on Twitter @ReinaDailyNews
