As a parent one of my worst fears is that one of my children will get a life-threatening illness. Protecting them from this is almost always on my mind. Will that fever get out of hand? Will that asthma strangle the lungs?

Of course I know there are things I can never protect them from. Some kids get cancer. That’s life. But how often do you hear of a family where not only does one of their sweet-faced babies have cancer, but both parents do as well?

Yes, when life seems to be treating some people most unfairly, it can–and does–get worse.

In Alameda three of six members of the Pixon family — dad Jim, mom Jen and little guy Porter, now 4 — are fighting cancer. This Saturday there’s a benefit bluegrass concert to help them out.

Visit our sister blog at www.BandsOfTheBay.com, which is supporting the fundraiser, for all the details. Or you can donate directly: The Jen Pixton Cancer Fund, PO Box 6001 Alameda, CA 94501. Please make checks payable to: The Jen Pixton Cancer Fund.