The Rock the Cure benefit was held Sept. 27 at Schnecksville Fire Company to help friend and fellow musician Larry Werner in his fight to beat cancer.

Werner has been diagnosed with stage IVB nasopharyngeal carcinoma that has metastasized to other parts of his body. His treatments will be long and hard; at this moment, he has no medical insurance. All of the money raised from the event, organized by Greater Lehigh Valley Music Association, was given to Werner and his family for all of his needs and medical bills that have already begun to pile up.

Werner was born and raised in Northampton. A graduate of Northampton High school, he now resides in Bethlehem. He and his wife, Sandi Lou, have six children.

Werner has been active in the Lehigh Valley Music Awards for more than 30 years. As a musician, he performs for benefits fighting cancer, child abuse and heroin overdose, to name a few.

“[The Rock the Cure benefit] was an outstanding day, and it showed how much joy can be found even in the darkest situations,” said Sandi Lou. “We deeply appreciate each and every contribution, and we wish to especially thank Greater Lehigh Valley Music Association for their sponsorship.”

Sandi Lou thanked the Rock the Cure committee members for their commitment to the cause.

“Although Larry has not been cleared of his battle with this horrific disease, all of the outpouring of love and support has provided us with enormous comfort and relief,” she said.

Donations can be made in two ways: payable to Greater Lehigh Valley Music Association, 3140 W. Tilghman St., Suite 207, Allentown, PA 18104 or directly payable to Larry Werner, 725 Jennings St., Bethlehem, PA 18017.