Friends of southern blues-rock legend Larry Howard are holding a fundraising event to help him as he fights liver cancer.
- Event will be held Sunday in Plant City
- Howard was recently diagnosed with liver cancer
- Bandmates rally behind longtime friend
Howard grew to fame in the 1970s as part of the band Grinderswitch. In the 1980s, he also began performing in Christian rock bands and performed in hundreds of prisons for a ministry.
Bandmate Skip Frye performed with Howard on and off for 36 years. Most recently, they have performed together under the band name "Southern Rock of Ages."
Frye wants to do all he can to help Howard.
"It's pretty hard. It's pretty hard," Frye said of his feelings about Howard's struggle with cancer.
When Frye himself was diagnosed with cancer not long ago, it was Howard who had his back.
"Got diagnosed with melanoma cancer a few years ago, and Larry was there for me,” said Frye. "He was one of the guys that was there for me. He was there when I had the operation."
The band will perform at the "Larry Howard Benefit" Sunday at Keel & Curley Winery in Plant City. A number of other musicians will perform at the benefit, as well.
Donated items will be auctioned to raise funds for Howard's medical treatment and expenses.
"Because we love him. We want to support him, and see him get through this," Frye said. "Larry's a tough guy. He's been through a lot of stuff. And I really believe he's going to beat this."
You can make a donation by clicking here. Learn more about this weekend's evening on the Larry Howard Benefit page on Facebook.