Rockin’ in Remembrance: Fugitive to Play Benefit for York Hospital Cancer Fund

On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m., the Leavitt Theatre, 259 Main St., Ogunquit, will host a benefit concert featuring local band Fugitive. Known for their high-energy, foot-stomping rock ’n’ roll, Fugitive will perform a unique mix of favorites from the ’60s to today — with plenty of chances to dance.

The concert honors David Wilford, a former bandmate and York Hospital employee who lost his life to cancer. All proceeds from the event will support York Hospital’s Living Well With Cancer Fund, which provides essential services and support to cancer patients and their families.

Tickets start at $25. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors Dr. Ryan G. Smith of York Village Dental and Troy Williams of Keller Williams Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty — along with the band donating their performance fee — 100% of ticket sales go directly to the fund.

For tickets and information, visit www.leavitttheatre.com.

Behind the Benefit

Dan Mason and his wife, Jody Sieben, of York, are the organizing force behind the event. The idea took shape during a gathering at the home of cancer survivor Charlie Desmond, where Fugitive was playing. As friends and family shared stories about cancer’s impact, the conversation turned to how they could support others in the community. That heartfelt discussion sparked plans for a concert benefiting York Hospital’s Living Well With Cancer program.

The loss of Fugitive band member David Wilford to glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, made the cause especially meaningful for the group. Led by David’s twin brother, Jeff, the band volunteered to perform at the benefit. Fugitive includes four seasoned local musicians who have played throughout the region for years: Jeff Wilford, lead vocals and guitar; Don Wilford, bass guitar and vocals; Beau Dalleo, lead guitar and vocals; and Jim Gordon on drums and vocals.

“Everyone involved in the creation of this event has been personally impacted by cancer — whether through the loss of a loved one or supporting someone currently battling the disease. This concert is both a tribute and an opportunity to support a program that does so much for our community,” Sieben said.

It’s Deeply Personal

For Mason, the cause is deeply personal. “My son and I sat by my father’s bedside as he died at home from pancreatic cancer. The following year, I held the hand of a dear friend who passed away at home, taken in the prime of his life by brain cancer. I was inspired by this community’s commitment to support and improve the lives of others struggling with the disease. It’s heartening to know that right here in York, Maine, the Living Well With Cancer program carries out this mission,” he said.

Charlie Desmond, of North Berwick, shared his own powerful story marked by loss and resilience.

“We had just welcomed a son with Down syndrome and were learning to navigate that journey when cancer unexpectedly entered our lives. I had lived a healthy lifestyle. I didn’t smoke, drink alcohol, use chewing tobacco, eat poorly, or work in a nuclear power plant — yet at age 38, I was diagnosed with stage 4 testicular cancer. The diagnosis came as a complete shock to our young family.”

“In the years before that, I faced other challenges — losing my father suddenly to heart disease and watching my apartment building burn down — but none were as overwhelming as battling cancer. I made it through treatment, and now my brother is facing a terminal glioblastoma diagnosis.”

“Cancer affects such a large section of the population. That’s why it’s so important to support the people and programs that can help,” Desmond said.

With more than two million Americans expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025 — and over 600,000 projected to lose their lives — the need for strong, compassionate support systems is undeniable.

Support Is Key

Kristen Gustavsen, of Kittery, sister of David, Jeff, and Don Wilford, knows firsthand the impact of York Hospital’s Living Well With Cancer Fund. When David was diagnosed with glioblastoma, the program became a lifeline for her family — offering not just care, but compassion, guidance, and crucial support through every stage of his illness.

“Support is key,” Gustavsen says. “When David was diagnosed, his life changed in an instant. He had to stop working, lost his eyesight, and could no longer do the everyday things we all take for granted.

“The oncology team at York Hospital, especially the Living Well With Cancer program, was our saving grace. They supported David through every step — and every stumble. To say we are grateful for the love, empathy, and care they provided is an understatement. I’ll never be able to thank them enough," said Gustavsen.

Her experience underscores why this benefit concert carries such deep personal meaning.

“I’m honored to help bring our community together to support this program that did so much for my family. It’s a chance to dance, laugh, celebrate life, and raise vital funds for a program that truly makes a difference for people facing cancer. If you can’t attend the concert, I encourage you to donate — in honor of the many lives lost and in support of those still fighting one of the most frightening diseases imaginable. I hope to see you on the dance floor!”

About the Fund

The Living Well With Cancer Fund supports York Hospital patients diagnosed with cancer by offering programs focused on mind, body, and well-being. Services include support groups, preoperative classes, exercise, creativity workshops, nutritional guidance, massage, Reiki, acupuncture, and emergency assistance. The goal is to help patients improve their overall wellness throughout treatment.

Susan Kelly-Westman, LMSW, an oncology social worker with the program, brings a heartfelt perspective shaped by her own experiences with cancer loss.

“I lost my husband at age 30 to glioblastoma, as well as my stepdaughter and a best friend to brain tumors, and my father to pancreatic cancer. I also worked directly with David Wilford during his treatment at York Hospital, so this benefit is especially meaningful to me. I am passionate about the work I do — helping cancer patients navigate their often-challenging journeys and walking beside them every step of the way,” Kelly-Westman said.

Support the Cause

This benefit concert is a powerful way for the community to come together, honoring those touched by cancer, supporting vital programs at York Hospital, and raising hope for patients and families facing this difficult journey. Whether you attend on June 25 or contribute from afar, your support makes a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.

For more information on the Living Well With Cancer program, visit www.yorkhospital.com/services/cancer-care/treatment-services/ or call (207) 351-3721.

To donate to the Living Well With Cancer Fund, visit the secure donation page.

For tickets and information, visit www.leavitttheatre.com.

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