By Linda Chuss

The public is invited to a rock concert at the Milford High School auditorium on Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. Proceeds from the event will go to the Ty Louis Campbell Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity that funds the development of safer and less toxic treatments for childhood cancer. 

Performers for the show are the Rockin’ for a Reason band, made up of local middle and high school students who auditioned to be part of it, and Milford’s Joe B. band. Tickets are $10. 

In 2012, the parents of Ty Campbell, of Carmel, NY, established the foundation after Campbell died from cancer at age five as a result of his treatment’s side effects. Along with raising funds, the foundation aims to remind parents to enjoy fun times with their children and focus less on the stresses of everyday parenting. Fundraisers like Rockin’ for a Reason reflect that spirit.

Jennifer Massaro Derocher of Upton is the concert organizer. 

“Ty’s dad, Louie, and I were childhood friends,” she said. “We had lost touch, but when I heard about Ty’s fight with cancer, I reached out to help. I’ve been a member of the foundation’s board of directors since its inception.

“Our first Rockin’ for a Reason concert was in 2013 at Nipmuc High School in Upton and we’ve had at least one every year since. This is our second benefit concert in Milford.”

This Rockin’ for a Reason band consists of 22 students from Milford, Nipmuc, Miscoe Hill, and Blackstone Valley Technical schools. On the show’s lineup are classic favorites like The B-52’s “Love Shack” and “I’m Shipping up to Boston” by the Dropkick Murphys.

The Joe B. band performs in the area, with a recent show at the Southwick Zoo’s Winter Wonderland. Former band member Carlie Gonzalez was diagnosed with cancer in 2018, making the Rockin’ for a Reason benefit especially meaningful to the group.

“It’s a fun event, and by coming, people can feel good about contributing to an important cause,” Derocher said. According to the foundation, only one in five children diagnosed with cancer will lead a healthy and full life. Through fundraising, the foundation’s intent is that children diagnosed with cancer have the opportunity to lead longer lives, without the disease and debilitating side effects of today’s treatments.

“At the October Nipmuc concert, we raised over $8,000,” said Derocher. “Our goal for this school year is $25,000. Over the years, Rockin’ for a Reason has contributed over $100,000 to the foundation. People can help by attending this concert, being an event sponsor, and making monetary donations.”

Tickets for the show can be purchased at the door. To become a sponsor, contact Derocher at [email protected]. Donations can be made online at givebutter.com/rockinforareason2023.