'Spotlight for a Cause' concerts to raise funds for crash victim

TUESDAY, JULY 12 (UPDATE JULY 13): A series of benefit concerts have been organized to help a man who was involved in a life-changing accident on Fathers Day.

Dion Ford and Lenairo Simmons, both of whom are fathers, were celebrating Father’s Day, and crashed on the Causeway on June 19.

Both men were seriously injured with Mr Ford being flown overseas to Massachusetts General Hospital for treatment.

The concerts called, Spotlight for a Cause, will raise funds for Mr Ford’s medical expenses.

Organizer of the events, Cha’Von Clarke of CKC Corporation said there will be four shows with more than 100 local artists performing.

“CKC Kares is the charity of CKC Corporation and we hold special events or initiatives to help Bermudians in a crisis.

“When Shirlena Daniels, Dion's youngest daughter's mom, approached me to assist with fundraising efforts, I immediately presented the idea of a talent show.

“The thought of one show quickly left my mind when the calls from artists, new and seasoned, immediately began contacting me to participate.

“They were all passionate about helping Dion.”

Ms Clarke said the artists include Freddie Mallory, Bobby Washington, Faja, Ramon Clarke, Maurita Andre, Stevie Dread, Ryan Bean, Jamawayne, Live Wires, Big Snipes, Cindy Smith, Sia Spence and more.

There will be singing, rapping, spoken word, a mini fashion show, Gombey’s and more.

Local celebrity hosts include R?ddla of Chewstick, Djata of Chewstick, Wayne Caines, Jah Simmons and PowerGirl Trina.

Mr Simmons has been released from hospital and Mr Ford is still at Spalding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston.

Ms Clarke said: “He has undergone surgeries and is slowly progressing.

“He remains thankful to everyone involved and supporting events to assist with his medical expenses.”

Asked how much money needed to be raised, she said: “We recognize that medical bills pile up quite quickly when an emergency situation of this capacity occurs. 

“With this in mind, it is our hope to contribute as much as we can to Dion and his family to assist with the medical expenses.

“Our pray is that if much of that has been covered, the parents can concentrate on caring for the children who remain here on the island.”

Ms Clarke said the community should come out and support the events in order to support a Bermudian who is in need of assistance and to support local talent.

 The dates for the concerts are July 16, August 13, 27 and September 10.

All concerts will take place at the Whitney Institute school hall beginning at 7:30pm.

Sponsors include Hott 1075, Barritt's, Dunkley’s, Whitney Institute, BGA, Kit & Caboodle and Butterfield and Vallis.

Door price is $20 or $30 for VIP. You can also buy a four-night ticket bundle for $50 or $100 VIP ticket.