Help Our Friend Ray (Ruby Redd) Fight Cancer

If you know Ray Matheson, or their fabulous alter ego, Ruby Redd, then you already know what kind of light they are in this world. Ray has given so much of themselves to our community for years, raising money for countless causes, as an Armorette, through their long-running drag bingo event, and in weekly shows at clubs across the city. Now, it’s our turn to show up for them.

Back in February, Ray was diagnosed with cancer. Since then, life has been a whirlwind of surgeries, hospitals, and tough recoveries. They endured a 9.5-hour surgery that left them with two metal rods and nine screws in their spine, followed by a full month in the hospital and months of physical therapy. Through it all, Ray has shown nothing but courage and determination. Ray is eager to heal and get back to being with community.

In August, Ray underwent a bone marrow transplant. The procedure is critical and now requires at least 100 days in strict quarantine to protect their health. That means no performing, no working, no way to support themselves financially. Up until now, Ray has managed to handle everything on their own, but the reality is that they need our help to get through this next chapter.

Ray has been there for all of us. As Ruby, they’ve made us laugh until we cried, reminded us of our strength, and raised money when others needed it most. Now, we have the chance to return that love. Ray has raised funds for nearly every local nonprofit and charitable organization, including:

The Atlanta Gay Men’s chorus

GA Equality

Atlanta Pride

AID Atlanta

Positive Impact

Atlanta Bucks Rugby

Hotlanta Softball

The list goes on and on! Ray has been there for ALL OF US!

Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward Ray’s medical bills, recovery, and basic living expenses while they heal. And if you can’t give, please share this with others who love Ray and Ruby.

Ray’s always been our rock, our entertainer, our community champion. Let’s be theirs now.