Say what you will about the metal scene’s flaws and foibles, but it’s a testament to our strength as a community that we’ve so often come together to lend a helping hand to those in need.

A recent online fundraiser to help cover the steep medical bills faced by Atriarch bassist Joseph Wickstrom was wildly successful, surpassing its goal within mere days (and it’s still going strong; read the full story and donate here).

When Doomantia founder Ed Barnard was left destitute after his own medical emergency, dozens of bands from around the globe rallied to contribute songs to the Doomantia Vol. I compilation; proceeds went to help Ed cover rent, buy food, and chip away at his hospital bills. A second compilation is now live, featuring tracks from Alunah, Clamfight, Hollow Leg, Iron Man, Junior Bruce, Undersmile, and tons more.

Now, another of our metal brethren is in dire straits and needs our assistance. Funerus bassist and vocalist Jill McEntee suffers from neuropathy, diabetes, and is currently recovering from heart surgery after a pretty serious scare; unfortunately, like so many others, she and her husband John McEntee of Incantation lack medical insurance, and are facing a massive bill from the hospital. Glorious Times is soliciting donations (Paypal to info AT funerus DOT com) and throwing a benefit show on Thursday, October 17 in Buffalo, NY that will feature performances from Avulsion and Hellcannon, as well as a raffle of items donated by tons of killer bands and labels. More info here and here.

(Sometimes socialized health care doesn’t sound like such a bad idea, eh?)

Lastly, many of us were shaken by the news of Eyehategod drummer Joey LaCaze’s passing. As devastated as his fans were, imagine how difficult it has been for his bandmates, and even moreso, for his family. The Sludgelord is currently putting together an online auction to benefit LaCaze’s wife and daughter. Those who’d prefer to donate directly to the family can do so via PayPal by sending money to lilithlux04 AT gmail DOT com and click on “I’m sending money to family or friends.”

It’s a lot to ask for you to send off your hard-earned dollars to support people you may have never even met, but, if you are able to spare it, it makes a very real difference. We’re all in this together, and if we’re not going to take care of our own, who will?