Jason Yarde stroke fund exceeds initial target
The beloved saxophonist Jason Yarde suffered from a "massive stroke" at the beginning of October
Last updated 26th Oct 2022
A fundraiser, set up to support saxophonist Jason Yarde, has exceeded its initial target of £50,000.
The jazz community was shocked to hear the news that the 52-year-old had collapsed on stage on the evening of Friday 7th October, at Pavilon République in Toulouse, France, while performing with Anthony Joseph.
It later emerged that the much-loved father, brother, friend and phenomenal composer/musician Jason Yarde suffered a massive stroke on stage.
It was extremely fortunate that paramedics were at the gig and quickly got Jason to the hospital. A bleed was found on his brain. Having caught it so fast, Jason was operated on swiftly in a Toulouse hospital, and as a result, we are relieved to say they are now discussing next steps and his return to the UK.
Some may know that Jason also underwent heart surgery in November 2020, so was in a fragile state before the incident.
Upon his return to the UK, those who love him want to ensure he can focus on his rehabilitation and not worry about how to afford what will be substantial costs including any necessary ongoing physiotherapy, massage therapy, accommodation and living costs.
A crowdfunding campaign has been set up for donations to support all of Jason’s medical and living needs.
On the 18th of October, Yvette Griffith, Co-Chief Exec and Executive Director of the award-winning Jazz Re:freshed, who organised the fundraiser, posted "YOU did it!! Big love to every single one of you who have contributed to Jason’s fund. This is just the first tier though… let’s keep going and grow this pot for Jason so that he can focus on recovery for however long it takes. Keep doing what you’re doing, sharing the link and let’s really smash through and create a safety net for Jason".
A network of Jason’s friends and family will also be hosting benefit gigs and events to support the fundraising efforts, including 14th November at the 606 Club, as part of EFG London Jazz Festival 2022.
Composer, arranger, producer, musical director and saxophonist Jason Yarde creates music that has been described as powerful, spiritual and formidable. The award-winning saxophonist came to prominence whilst playing alto and soprano saxophones with the groundbreaking group the Jazz Warriors while still a teenager in the 1980s.
If you'd like to donate to the fund, you can do so here.