Died Pretty & Support Act Start 'Help A Mate' Cancer Appeal For Singer Ron S. Peno

Died Pretty and Support Act have teamed up to launch the latter’s Help A Mate campaign for singer Ron S. Peno as he continues to fight cancer.

In 2019, Peno was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. After multiple treatments, major surgery and a rehabilitation period that stretched well into 2020, it was discovered that the cancer had moved to his brain.

Peno’s wife, Charity, has been his primary caregiver through the most challenging period of their lives, but now, with rises in the cost of living and inflation everywhere, it’s become a struggle to provide around-the-clock care, maintain a steady income and keep on top of living costs.

The Help A Mate appeal is targeted to cover rent bills, essential utilities, groceries, transport, in-home support services, and much-needed medication. Peno’s cancer has affected his ability to work and stay on top of the cost of living. He’s about to embark on another round of intense treatment.

All donations above $2 are tax deductible – you can give what you can here.

Hoodoo Gurus singer Dave Faulkner said about Peno in a statement: “A mesmerising performer, creative genius, hilarious conversationalist, and dapper dresser - Ron Peno is known for all these things, but there is so much more to the man.

“I am one of the fortunate ones who can also call Ron a dear friend, and it has been awful for all of us to watch him grapple with this insidious disease. Through it all, Ron has remained upbeat and stoic and never short of a comic quip, even during the toughest times. Ron’s light has always shone brightly, but unfortunately, times are pretty dark right now, and he needs our help; please give what you can.”

Last week, Died Pretty cancelled their upcoming October Australian tour dates as Peno and longtime drummer Chris Welsh battle cancer.

When the band initially announced their October Australian tour, they also revealed plans to release their first-ever live album. Died Pretty recorded the live album during a 2008 Don’t Look Back gig in Melbourne, followed by Big Day Out performances in 2009 and then 2012's Dig It Up festival. You can buy the CD or vinyl here.

For 40 years, Peno and Died Pretty have rocked audiences with chaotic and intense live shows. Their highly regarded 1986 debut album Free Dirt established them internationally, and they began touring Europe and America regularly.

Their landmark album, 1991's Doughboy Hollow, containing the singles Godbless, D.C. and Sweetheart, achieved chart success and is still frequently found in lists of the all-time top Australian albums.