SAN DIEGO — On Saturday, July 27th, a Concert of Hope starring KC and the Sunshine Band will raise money to help homeless youth. In this Zevely Zone, I preview the concert. If you were a 70's baby like me, my co-host is a household name, but before I reveal who she is, I want to tell you how Doors of Change is making a huge difference in our community. 19-year old Sergio Perez may be the toughest teenager I've ever met. "I have been homeless since I was 14 or 15 years old," said Sergio.
Not only was Sergio homeless, but doctors diagnosed him with Stage 4 cancer at age 17.
"At first when I got it I was in disbelief," said Sergio. He is receiving help finding resources to survive Hodgkin's Lymphoma. "If you are being honest he is pretty much not supposed to be here right now, the way his parents left him," said Turquoise Teagle.
She is a Doors of Change case manager who has become a mentor to Sergio. "Pretty much people said you are gone. He was at Make a Wish and it brings tears to my eyes because I would not have met him," said Turquoise.
Doors of Change has helped nearly 3,000 homeless youth get off the streets and Sergio's story may be the most inspiring yet.
"He is unstoppable," said Turquoise. "Every day, he does not know this but every day I say come on Turquoise what's your excuse?" If Sergio's strength makes you want to get on your feet and dance, we have just the place. KC and the Sunshine Band will perform a Doors of Change Concert of Hope at UC San Diego's Epstein Family Amphitheater on July 27.
My co-host for the benefit concert is the actress Erin Murphy. She played the baby Tabitha Stevens on the sitcom Bewitched. Erin is all grown up and ready to boogie with KC and the Sunshine Band.
"They've sold a hundred million copies of their CD's in the 70's. The biggest disco group in the history of disco," said Doors of Change Founder Jeffrey Sitcov. He has asked Sergio to share his story with the audience before the concert.
"We have seen hundreds and hundreds of success stories but this is one of the top ones because we see the greatness that Sergio will be a leader. He will be a surgeon. He is going to give hope to anybody, forget about your problems," said Jeffrey.
Sergio is pursuing dentistry in college and there's more good news.
"I am cancer free," said Sergio. "He wasn't supposed to be in college. He's in college," said Turquoise.
"These kids are not a number they are the future. He is going to be a doctor." Jeffrey then added, "I love you. I am proud of you and we are here for you for the rest of your life."
Doors of Change is hoping for a sold out crowd with everyone on their feet to help raise money and awareness for underserved youth. The 'Doors of Change Concert of Hope' will take place July 27th at UC San Diego's Epstein Amphitheater. Tickets start at $52. For more information, go to DoorsofChange.org.