Our pal Michael Olk has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer. "After he completely turned his life around? Seriously? Well, that sucks!" Said everyone. Yes, it does, and yes he could use our help.

The last time you decided to help (thanks to those of you who did), here's what happened: You changed his life. Michael has been completely sober, employed, healthy, funny and awesome for three years now.


Back in early November, he started feeling awful and got rushed to the hospital to figure out what was up. It turns out it was cancer.

He's starting treatments (chemo, then radiation). Some of you know that Michael is currently working in retail, and his insurance is totally inadequate. His treatments will kick his butt. He'll need help covering some of those medical bills and the daily living bills to get him through this. Every penny raised will go directly to Michael.

Any donation will be welcome. We know...we know...you've got bills and kids, and dogs and bills.

And Michael has cancer. So, let's rally again and help our friend.

The first very cool event is the Olk Aid Concert at Lee's Liquor Lounge. The concert is this coming Saturday December 7th (Olk Aid). Don't embarrass us--we told the owner that Michael had lots of friends...so we REALLY hope you can come. If not, please consider donating. No, but seriously, come! There's a great lineup including Dungan LeVee, a new Minneapolis supegroup featuring Adam and Noah Levy (the Honeydogs), Nate Dungan (Trailer Trash) and Tommy Vee (the Vees); the WCCO Blues Band; the Eagles tribute band Motel California; the CharterKats, featuring Jeff and Tommy Vee (the Vees) and some tremendous musicians from the Bayfield area; the Oarsmen (yes that one--from the volatile VH-1 “Behind the Music" special), and Duluth's Tin Can Gin--featuring Harrison Olk (Michael's son).

Thanks everyone