February is one my favorite times of the year here at WBKR.  That's when we get to rally your support to help raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis.  For 26 hours over two days, we ask the tri-state to join us in the fight against childhood cancer.  We introduce you various families who have had to hear those words, "Your child has cancer."  Well, I'm quite sad to report that, last month, Jared Daugherty, a former member of the WBKR family, had to hear those words, "Your child has cancer."

Jared's Facebook post told the story best (this went viral shortly after he and his wife Destiny learned the news) . . .

If there has ever been a time Destiny and I needed your prayers, now's the time. Doctors came in a few hours ago and delivered the devastating news that our baby boy (Rylan) has cancer. He has a 2" X 2" tumor in his pelvis and surgery will be in the next couple of days followed by treatment. Doctors prepared us this will be a long journey...

 
 
 
 
 

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Jared Daugherty used to work for WBKR radio in sales.  He and his wife Destiny only recently (it seems) celebrated the birth of their little boy, Rylan and, like most parents, were enjoying every waking moment with their young healthy child.  But that all changed a few weeks ago when they discovered that Rylan wasn't "healthy" at all.  He has a rare form of neuroblastoma.  In fact, upon diagnosis, the family learned he was Stage 3. 

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Rylan has already undergone excision surgery.  Doctors successfully removed 98% of the tumor and continue to combat the cancer with various methods.  Rylan has undergone chemotherapy treatments and is showing additional improvement, but treatment cycles must and will continue.  His next round will begin the first week of August.   The doctors have prepared Jared and Destiny that this will indeed be a long journey and it will.  But each day, their son is finding strength and they are gaining strength as well.  And, one thing we have learned from our annual radiothons, physical and emotional strength are vital to recovery. 

One thing is for certain with humankind.  Devastating news always gets trumped by a ferocious rally cry!   And Jared's friends and family have rallied to support him, Destiny and Rylan and help guide them through this obstacle, this long journey.  And WE are very excited to rally for their youngster at the ROCK IT WITH RYLAN benefit, Saturday, August 20th at The Hines Center in Philpot. 

The benefit begins at 6pm and is open to anyone 18-years-old and above (18 to enter.  21 to drink).  There will be a huge silent auction, live music, a cornhole tournament, DJ, and more!  Single tickets are just $20.  Couples pay $30.  And groups of three can purchase tickets for $50.  And, the most important note to share . . . ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT RYLAN DAUGHERTY! 

I will personally be there emceeing the event and I want to invite each and everyone of you to come and support the cause.  I can assure you . . . it's going to be an AMAZING night.  It will be fun, inspirational and a testament to the power of the people.  I frequently say, during the St. Jude Radiothon, that "Cancer sucks!"  Let's join together Saturday, August 20th and blow it the hell out of town.  Let's ROCK IT WITH RYLAN!

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