AFTER being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and almost losing a finger and suffering a heart attack due to the condition, Rhys Watson’s message is “look after yourself.”
The East Perth musician and his band Dirtwater Bloom will perform at fundraiser Convicts for a Cause in November, where money raised will go towards Diabetes Research WA, Cystic Fibrosis WA, Reflections Through Reality, and the Rotary Club of Mt Lawley.
It will be the second time the band is involved in the event, held at Fremantle Prison.
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READ NOWMr Watson said he refused to let the disease come between him and his music.
“I was diagnosed in 2000 when I was 30 years old; my finger got infected and I went to the hospital and nearly lost it,” he said.
“I play guitar and keyboard, so I snuck out of hospital to go to a gig.
“I think I neglected (my health) for awhile, I think men can be stupid like that.”
He said last year’s heart attack woke him up.
“I attribute my heart attack to the diabetes because my arteries were blocked up,” he said.
“Getting ill woke me up.
“I don’t write music to whinge about stuff, I am an optimistic bloke, you have to look after yourself and stay strong and healthy and not wallow.”
Event organiser Alison Dalziel urged community members to support the event.
“This event has brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars over the past seven years for amazing charities and it’s a huge amount of fun too,” she said.
Convicts for a Cause is now in its eight year with an aim to raise $100,000.
What: Convicts for a Cause charity cocktail event
When: Saturday, November 5, 7pm to 11pm
Where: Fremantle Prison, 1 The Terrace, Fremantle
Information: www.convictsforacause.org.au
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