Boy battling cancer gets "Idol" support

WEST WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) - A local boy battling cancer got a "shout-out" on American Idol this week from one of his own idols.

7 year-old Cole Grace of West Warwick went to a doctor in late January for a headache.  Doctors told his family that he was suffering from a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, and he has already undergone three surgeries in that short time.

This week he got a special surprise - he was able to talk to his idol, Steven Tyler of the rock band Aerosmith - and currently a judge on American Idol - for about an hour via Skype.  Tyler also gave Cole a "shout out" live on Wednesday night's show.

As Cole continues to battle cancer, a series of fundraisers has been organized for the family:

March 30, 2012
T’s Restaurant, 5600 Post Road, East Greenwich
Wine Tasting and Appetizers 6-9 pm $25
Contact: Gina Martin for tickets 401-451-7523 or 398-7877

April 14th, 2012
Cappy’s Bar, Memorial Blvd. Newport, RI
2-6 pm. No cover charge
Contact: Michelle Farnum michellefarnum@hotmail.com

April 14, 2012
Central Baptist Church, Narragansett Ave Jamestown
Clamcakes, Chowder, Lobster Rolls
4:30- 7 pm
Contact: Jill Dolce j.dolce@cox.net

April 22, 2012
Rock N’ Roll for Cole at Mardi Gras
1500 Oaklawn Ave, Cranston, RI
Food by Meritage, raffles, bands, comics
3-9 pm Tickets $20
Contact: Jaime jDaigneau27@gmail.com

April 28, 2012
Pasta Dinner at Deering Middle School
5-8 pm raffles and silent auction Tickets $8 adults/$5 children
Contact: Lynn Bernadyn lbernadyn1@verizon.net

May 3, 2012 Five Guys: Burger Nite Rt 2, Warwick
Thursday 4-10 pm
10% of sales to Cole
Contact: Phil at 5 Guys 401-828-3100 or kraska.phil@gmail.com

Ongoing: Soap Sales for Cole by Mary Lovegreen and Vicki Schmidt:
Email beer34@cox.net or wellbrewed@yahoo.com