In Derek’s own words: “[This song] was written and recorded for anyone challenged by Cancer in any form. I sincerely hope that it helps in the insidious challenge we all face in our brain boxes as we battle the disease.”
As a leukemia patient I have found two ways to help my ailing immune system fight the challenges of leukemia. The first is music, and playing the blues harmonica lifts me into another level of healing that only music can bring. The second has been fundraising to help fellow leukemia patients here in Nova Scotia. I am establishing a fund to be available to those less fortunate leukemia patients who may need some financial assistance in their fight for life.
In August 2004 I was fortunate in getting four very talented musicians to donate their time in recording a great blues CD. The costs of producing this CD were either covered by donations of time or services, so 100% of the sale price of each CD went to the QEII Foundation, the fundraising arm of the QEII Hospital in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
In December 2005 the band got together again for a concert, at which time I presented a check for $20,000 to the QE11 Foundation. The concert was recorded and a second CD was produced and released. The new CD is “Little Derek and the Haemo Blues Band” RED & WHITE Album.
Fundraising efforts continue as long as there are leukemia sufferers who need our help. We are currently staging a large corporate sponsorship campaign. If you are a business member of the Atlantic Canada community and can help, please click here to learn more. As an individual, if you or someone you know loves blues music, you can purchase a CD (details found below). 100% of the proceeds go directly to the QEII Hospital. Also, please take a moment to visit our website to see which companies have given us their invaluable support on this project. If you have the opportunity, return the favour by showing them your support as well.
If you are a leukemia sufferer, or if someone close to you is, we invite you to share your story with us (read about it here, then email your stories to mystory@haemoblues.com). For every case of leukemia in Canada, there is the story of a personal journey to be told.
Thanks. And remember: Life is for Living so take time out to smell the roses.
You just never know what tomorrow may bring!
To purchase Derek’s CD:
100% of the proceeds go into a fund that helps leukemia patients with financial difficulties during treatment.
Meet Derek at http://www.haemoblues.com.
Also of interest: Live in Nova Scotia? Want an EXTREMELY comfortable bed? Visit Derek’s family business at http://www.simmonsmattressgallery.net.
