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ROCK FOR CHOC
A Fund Raiser for Rady Children’s Health
June 19th, 2026 by Jimmy Alvarez
It is often said that music scenes, no matter where you call home are like family. Depending on which band is coming to any big city or small town, it can be like a high school reunion. Here’s such a story from Orange County, California.
The OC has been the birthplace of scores of bigtime musical artists and bands. The one thing that is true about the OC music scene is you know if a crowd loves you. If they do, there is no better place to be than the OC.
A few years ago I came across a show that changed that dynamic. It was less about the bands and more about the fans: One in particular, Carter Ankeny and his family.
Carter was a very young boy, and he loved the loved the bands from the OC ska scene. The family became regulars at show after show after show. They became friends with all the local bands, and they, in turn, became fans of the Ankeny family.
Sadly, Carter was stricken by a disease that has plagued mankind since the beginning of time. He was diagnosed with cancer, and despite a valiant effort, Carter eventually passed from that dreaded disease: His passing left the scene devastated.
Over the years the community has expressed their love for Carter by supporting anything Carter related. CARTER STRONG FOREVER came to life and has been a champion for causes to help children with cancer and their families.
Fast forward to 2026 and the Ankeny’s have been appointed as The Ambassador Family for the 2026 CHOC Walk in the Park, held at Disneyland Resort on August 2nd. Walking as Team #Carterstrongforever.
The Ankeny family has also announced a fundraiser that the OC music community will support. Knowing how this dreaded disease can impact anyone, we are all sensitive to the plight of any person: and their loved ones who suffer from the affliction in whatever form it takes or impacts them.
With local bands ready to perform, a venue secured, Rock for CHOC is coming. This benefit show will raise money for kids’ hospital care. It will be hosted by #Carterstrongforever. Also notable: CHOC is now called Rady Children’s Health Orange County.
As for Carter, he inspired people of all ages with his kindness, fearlessness, and he moved all who knew him in the manner he embraced life despite his affliction.
It is that energy and passion for life that is Carter’s legacy. This event will be a continuation of his kindness. Truth is the strongest people are children who fight silent battles. Their courage often comes in voices you can barely hear, but their strength can move hearts and souls.
Rock for CHOC will take place July 19th at Radiant Beer Co. in Anaheim. Bands scheduled to perform include Hooray For Our Side, Odd Robot, Chase Long Beach, and Sailors Songbook. Tickets are $ 20 and on sale now.
If you have room in your heart and your wallet, please help this worthy cause. Supporting this event, CHOC Walk in the Park, organizations like Rady Children’s Health Orange County, and CARTERSRONG FOREVER will help put some light in the darkness for those afflicted with cancer.
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SID 260618 | TRACI TURNER | EDITOR
