A fundraiser has been launched for Jennifer Finch, bassist of legendary feminist punk band L7 and an all-time LOUD WOMEN hero, following her diagnosis with brain cancer.
Jennifer is currently undergoing treatment and, after multiple surgeries, faces a long recovery. The fundraiser will help cover her medical expenses and the additional care she’ll need while she focuses on getting better.
L7’s Donita Sparks said:
“We are all devastated by the news and are surrounding her with love. Jennifer is family, and we want her to feel the full strength of the community that has loved and supported her for so many years.”
As a founding member of L7, Jennifer helped change the face of punk and heavy music forever. Fierce, uncompromising and utterly unapologetic, L7 didn’t just write some of the greatest songs of their generation – they kicked down doors for women in rock, inspiring countless bands, festivals, promoters and fans in the decades since. LOUD WOMEN simply wouldn’t exist without trailblazers like Jennifer.
We’ve also never heard a bad word said about Jennifer. Quite the opposite. Time and again, people who’ve toured with her, worked with her or crossed paths with her describe her as generous, funny, welcoming and endlessly kind. She has a reputation as one of those rare people who is every bit as wonderful off stage as she is on it.
The response from the music community has been immediate. Musicians including Kathleen Hanna, Shirley Manson, Pearl Jam’s Jeff Ament and actor Melanie Lynskey are among those who have already backed the fundraiser, alongside thousands of fans, demonstrating just how loved and respected Jennifer is.
As anyone who’s followed healthcare in the United States knows, a serious illness doesn’t just bring an enormous physical and emotional toll. It can also bring overwhelming financial pressure. Nobody should be fighting cancer while worrying about how they’re going to pay for the care they need.
The punk community has always looked after its own, and now it’s our turn to show up for one of the people who helped build it. If L7’s music has ever inspired you, if Jennifer’s work has ever made you feel stronger, or if you simply believe that legendary musicians deserve dignity, care and community when they need it most, please consider donating if you can.
Let’s give something back to a woman who has given so much to all of us.
We’re sending Jennifer all our love and strength, and hope she feels the huge community standing behind her.
You can donate to Jennifer’s fundraiser here