Friends of hip-hop legend DJ KOOL HERC are urging fans to donate funds to help the ailing star pay for much-needed medical treatment.
The Jamaican-born music pioneer, 55, was discharged from an undisclosed medical facility last week (end30Jan11) after being hospitalised for a mystery illness.
The star, real name Clive Campbell, doesn't have health insurance and so can't afford to cover the costs of surgery.
Now his friends and supporters have launched a campaign to help raise the cash he needs to receive treatment.
In a post on Twitter.com, DJ Tony Touch writes, "I just spoke to Kool Herc. He’s ok and in good spirits... but needs surgery... This Tuesday... We’re gonna do a collection for him."
Meanwhile, DJ Premier, says, "Kool Herc is very sick. For those that know about hip-hop, who we call the father of hip-hop, Kool Herc, is not doing well.
"It's funny how we have a father of a culture that still lives, where as in some cultures they are dead and gone even though they may still be worshipped or reflected on in some kind of way... Being as though he is the man that set this whole culture off, y'all (the fans) should be willing (to help in) any type of way you can."