Jesse Saunders, a Chicago house music pioneer, has suffered a major stroke in November 2022 and is currently undergoing rehabilitation in a hospital. Saunders is facing difficulties with walking and is unable to speak, relying on a feeding tube. In response, a fundraiser has been established by Kirkland Townsend, a promoter and friend, to aid in Saunders’ ongoing recuperation. The organization is intended to cover Saunders’ medical expenditures throughout his recovery process.
His condition has been described as a “matter of urgency” by the GoFundMe page, as Saunders cannot afford care without further support from the page visitors. The page reads, “He cannot afford the care he needs in the rehab facility and is at risk of being released without further help.” The objective of the fundraiser is to help Saunders stay at the rehabilitation center so that he can undergo therapy and regain his life.
The “The Chosen Few DJs” member is one of the pioneers of the House Music scene in Chicago and was an important contributor to the genre. He co-founded the collective with Tony Hatchett, Alan King, and Andre Hatchett. With the addition of Terry Hunter and Mike Dunn, the ensemble expanded in 2012. Saunders and Vince Lawrence, who worked together to create one of the genre’s seminal tracks, ‘On and On,’ are recognized as supporters of the genre’s founding sound. Saunders also authored other notable compositions such as ‘Funk U Up,’ ‘Love Can’t Turn Around,’ ‘Real Love,’ and ‘Dum Dum.’
As of this writing, the GoFundMe account has already raised $25,000 of its $150,000 target. Several contributors have left uplifting messages like ‘Wishing a speedy recovery’ to encourage Saunders throughout his recovery period. Saunders could be deserted by his care facility if the funds are not raised by the end of the month, according to the GoFundMe page.
Those who would like to donate to the GoFundMe page can do so on their website. Becky Buckle, the Multimedia Editor of Mixmag, can be followed on Twitter
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