Rocking Out for Charity

ST. PETERSBURG – A charity rock show inspired by a woman's fight against breast cancer was staged at State Theatre Saturday night.

Mary Zambrotto has been battling breast cancer for three years, with surgery and then radiation. She is now cancer-free.

"She's using alternative medicine as well as conventional," explained John. "She's been clear for a couple months now."

To acknowledge his survivor mom, son John Zambrotto decided to put on a charity event to raise money and awareness about the struggles of breast cancer patients and their families. The show also raised money for a local family dealing with medical bills. "My mom inspired me to try and help the cause," John said. "This is all in honor of her."

Metal heads jammed out in the name of giving on Saturday night and raised nearly $1,000 for the local cancer-stricken family.

Zambrotto is a musician himself, and got in touch with a number of bands and the event started to take shape. NAs Bridges Burn and Adame jumped on board for the show, not to mention Zambrotto's own band Psyaxis.

Tickets were $10; local charity group was the recipient of the funds raised. Lick Breast Cancer donates to families and/or individuals facing financial struggles because of cancer.

Founder of Lick Breast Cancer Billie Lambert was on hand selling apparel for the cause. Lambert was impressed with Zambrotto's generosity and spirit. "It makes me proud," said Lambert. "I think it's awesome to see a cancer survivor's son step up and do something like this."

Barbara's Cupcake and Chocolate Creation's were taking donations in exchange for delicious cupcakes. All of the donations went directly to the charity.