My name’s Addy, and I’m setting up this fundraiser to support my dad, Jonathan — or Jon, as most people know him — as he faces an incredibly difficult period of cancer treatment.

Anyone who knows Jon knows what a funny, kind, generous spirit he is - and how uncomfortable it is for him to accept help. We’ve both been blown away by the support and expressions of solidarity we’ve already received, which makes it difficult to ask for further help.

My dad is a life long rock and roller. Music has been part of his life for as long as I can remember - Wherever we’ve lived, he’s always found his way into a local scene. He’s played music, supported bands, gone to shows, made lifelong friendships and contributed to the communities that have grown around music.

Dad has always understood involvement in a subculture as being part of a river, a lineage of subversive expression that at its best can be a lifeline for people. He’s passed this onto me so much so it’s definitive of my life.

This is why I’m reluctantly making this GoFundMe - I believe that this community that he and I are both part of want to help just as much as we’ve wanted to give back over the years.

Jon has been diagnosed with advanced cancer, and his treatment has involved — and will continue to involve — significant hospitalisation, surgery, medical treatment and a long period of recovery. The physical toll has been enormous, and the practical and financial consequences of being seriously ill have also placed a huge strain on our family.

I am currently caring for my dad and coordinate what he needs as he goes through treatment. As his treatment continues, there are substantial costs associated with his care.

Funds raised through this campaign will help us manage the costs associated with Jon’s illness and recovery, including things like:

I know that we are in remarkably difficult times financially, and offering monetary support is not accessible for many. For those of you who have read this far and are unable to donate, thank you. Please consider sharing this page regardless, as there may be other people who see this who are able to help.

We don’t take asking for funds lightly - we’re asking because this has become much bigger than something our family can comfortably manage alone. Every donation, no matter how large or small, will make a genuine difference to us.

Most importantly, thank you for taking the time to read this, and thank you to everyone who has already supported Jon in any way — through messages, visits, music, practical help, hospital support, friendship or simply thinking of him. Especially his loving partner Regine, dear friend (and my mom) Alison, sister Jo and close friends Ad Batt and Rory.

We're incredibly grateful.

Thank you for helping us look after my dad.

— Addy