Rocco Prestia Issues Health Update, East Coast Benefit Events Announced

Rocco Prestia

Last year, we reported that Tower of Power bassist Rocco Prestia was once again battling serious health issues. The bassist has now issued an update about his condition on the band’s website.

“First off I’d like to thank everyone who has either donated to my medical fund or given their time and energy,” he stated. “It is greatly appreciated to say the least! As far far as my health goes, as you know, I am not well enough to be on the road with Tower Of Power at this time. My kidney function numbers although way below normal have been holding steady. I’m feeling OK however I am in need of a kidney transplant as soon as possible. According to the medical team, even though I feel OK right now my condition can deteriorate suddenly. I know some of you thought we had a donor and we were ready to go. Unfortunately at the 11th hour that changed. After some final testing, the person who was a match is no longer a viable donor. Needless to say, there was a lot of disappointment.”

Two special East Coast benefits have been set up to help aid in Prestia’s medical expenses. First is the “Spare Parts” Ultimate Dance Party and Concert, which will be held Sunday March 30th at the Arts at the Armory in Somerville, Massachusetts. The party kicks off at 3pm and will include a live performance by Berklee College of Music’s Tower of Power Ensemble. Tickets are $30 in advance and can be ordered online.

The second benefit event is called “Rockin’ for Rocco” and will be held at the Tally Ho in Leesburg, Virginia. Presented by Poetown Music, the evening will be filled with incredible music with performances by Spyro Gyra bassist Scott Ambush, Brandon Gilliard, Johnny Neel, and more. Tickets for the event are $25 and can be ordered on the Tally Ho Leesburg website.

Prestia will be on hand at both events to greet and thank supporters. If you can’t make it out to one of the benefits, you can donate to the Help Rocco Fund or see if you could be a potential kidney donor on Rocco’s website.

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  1. Actually, it’s Johnny Neel of The Allman brothers and Govt mule ….