Jordan here, I had the opportunity to chat with Brandon Ward, Executive Director and co founder of the F*ck Cancer Foundation (hint: the asterisk is a placeholder for the letter U if you want to really spell it out and research it on your own). In this short conversation done in between the sets of Godsmack and TOOL at Louder than Life, we discussed the foundation’s origin, its mission, and how people can get involved. Read on to learn more about this organization and how it is making a positive impact in the fight against cancer.
When did F*ck Cancer start?
Brandon Ward shared that the F*ck Cancer Foundation was officially established in 2009. Its roots trace back to Costa Mesa, Orange County, where it all began with a group great friends and surf buddies as Brandon described the bunch.
In 2005, Brandon Ward’s friend, who was also a cousin to another cofounder, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This served as a catalyst for the creation of F*ck Cancer. Ward and his friends organized fundraisers to help cover the treatment costs. As they started assisting others, they realized the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of many people facing cancer. In 2007 their friend succumbed to his battle with cancer. Still, they continued helping others and in 2009 filed all the paperwork to make F*ck Cancer an official foundation.
How long has F*ck Cancer Foundation been coming to Louder than Life?
Brandon mentioned that the F*ck Cancer Foundation has been participating in the Louder than Life event since around 2014-2015, The inception period of the festival itself. Each year, they join the rock festival as part of their Awareness Tour, where 100% of the proceeds go to local cancer treatment centers in the area of the tour stop. With over 60 cities on the tour, the foundation aims to raise awareness and support cancer patients across the country.
How can people get involved with the foundation?
To get involved with the F*ck Cancer Foundation, you can visit the website at fuckcancer.org. (The one time I cant bleep the word so back the hell off FCC) This is where you will find various opportunities to contribute, volunteer, or donate towards the cause.
Huge thanks to Brandon Ward for taking the time to discuss the F*ck Cancer Foundation and the incredible work they are doing around the country. If you are interested in making a difference in the fight against cancer, I encourage you to visit fuckcancer.org to learn more about ways you can get involved with this impactful organization.
