Edited by JOHN DALY
Ronnie James Dio, the rock legend, lost his battle with gastric cancer 10 years ago but he lives on through his music and the charitable work of The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund.
The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund has raised more than $2 million to fight the disease that took his life. The fund, which was founded in Dio’s memory, has posted a video on its website taking a look back at the work accomplished.
The Dio Cancer Fund managed to host its 10th Anniversary Awards Gala at the Avalon in Hollywood last February, just prior to the continuing COVID lockdowns that prevent gatherings.
The Fund’s two main annual fund-raising events are the springtime Ride For Ronnie Motorcycle Ride and Concert, which has been cancelled this year due to the pandemic. The Bowl For Ronnie Celebrity Bowling Tournament held in the fall is scheduled for November 12, 2020. Dio lost his battle with cancer on May 16, 2010.
The Dio Cancer Fund also received the proceeds from the 2014 platinum-selling tribute album called This Is Your Life, comprised of songs written by Ronnie James Dio recorded by major rock and metal recording artists. This Is Your Life won a 2015 Grammy for Best Metal Performance for Tenacious D (actor/musicians Jack Black and Kyle Gass) and their rendition of Ronnie James Dio’s “The Last in Line.”
For more information on the fund go to www.diocancerfund.org.
Merchandise from the 10th Anniversary Awards Gala, including programs, posters, teeshirts, tote bags and masks, is available for purchase here.