In 2004, Ryan ‘Gooch’ Nelson, the slide guitarist for the band 61 North, suffered a spinal cord injury in a disastrous car accident. After six weeks of intensive rehabilitation, Nelson could play his guitar again. While still confined to a wheelchair, Nelson’s is a success story that provides inspiration for many. On February 20, Nelson and his band played at the second annual benefit concert for spinal cord injury in Carney’s Point, New Jersey.
The first benefit concert in October 2008 raised $4,000, while the totals for this year’s concert have not yet been reported. The money from the benefit will go to the Magee Rehabilitation Hospital in Philadelphia and the Adam Taliaferro Foundation. Nelson underwent his rehabilitation at the Magee Hospital after his accident in 2004. Brian LaPann, singer for 61 North, told NJ.com, ‘Part of 61 North’s mission is giving back to the community in charities that we believe in. That is why we put together the 61 North Benefit Concert for Spinal Cord Injuries.’
From Nelson’s bandmates descriptions, this year’s benefit sounds bigger and better than the last. NJ.com reported, ‘This year’s event has more sponsors, a really great sound person and an experienced lighting person.’ The show was held at Salem Community College at the Davidow Theatre. Tickets were $20 for adults and $10 for students.
We congratulate Nelson and his band mates for their efforts at raising funds and awareness for those suffering from spinal cord injuries. Nelson exemplifies the attitude of never giving up, even in the face of serious debilitating injuries. 61 North’s music stands as testament to the power of successful rehabilitation and community outreach.
References:
61 North Band. (January 6, 2010) ’61 North is proud to announce the Second Annual Benefit Concert for Spinal Cord Injury.’ Retrieved on February 22, 2010 from the 61 North Band Web site: http://www.61northband.com/index_2.html
Cormier, Ryan. (February 18, 2010) ‘Concert benefits rehabilitation hospital.’ Retrieved on February 22, 2010 from the Delaware Online Web site:http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20100218/ENTERTAINMENT/2190306/Bes…
Marine, Jaime. (February 18, 2010) ‘Concert at Salem Community College will raise funds, awareness for spinal cord injuries.’ Retrieved on February 22, 2010 from the NJ.com Web site: http://www.nj.com/salem/index.ssf/2010/02/concert_at_salem_community_col…