“Rock for Doc” Concert Held to Raise Money for Doctor’s Mesothelioma Treatments
Dr. Mona Chiha, a family practice doctor in Farmington, New Mexico, is now the patient after being diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. In order to help with her rising medical costs, friends and neighbors came together at the “Rock for Doc” battle of the bands fundraising event at Zebra’s Sports Grill on Sunday.
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelial cells, caused by breathing in asbestos fibers that become lodged in the thin membrane that lines and encases the lungs. Approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the United States. Chiha says she was “taken aback” by the diagnosis since she has no family history of the disease and she has eaten well and exercised regularly.
The event was organized by Adam Martinez and Chiha’s daughter Natalie with a goal of raising $5,000. According to the events’ Facebook page, Martinez posted today that the event “was a huge success,” and “we raised four times more than we expected!” All the proceeds will go directly to Chiha and will help fund the intensive mesothelioma treatments and chemotherapy she will be receiving.
The event featured 10 bands, a raffle and a silent auction of art and jewelry. Monetary donations were accepted to “vote” for the best band of the day. The cover charge was $10 and included wristbands saying “Endure MC.” The bands and musicians included: Kicked Out of Canada, Aubrey Maslen, Rachel Velasquez, The Question, James Griffin, Never Again, Tony Evans, Off the Interstate, Dynamic Duo, Erin Leanne and Incide.
Chiha, who practices at the San Juan Regional Medical Center’s urgent care center, was diagnosed with mesothelioma in May and started her chemotherapy treatment in June.
