A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support former Savatage bassist Keith Collins, who has been diagnosed with dementia and now requires financial assistance for daily living expenses and legal costs.
Dementia is a condition that affects memory, reasoning, thinking and behavior, gradually interfering with a person’s ability to carry out everyday activities. As the disease progresses, many patients become increasingly dependent on others for care and support.
The fundraiser was organized by Glenn Dillman, Keith Collins‘ former bandmate in Krunch, who highlighted Collins‘ long-standing contributions to the Tampa Bay metal scene and explained why help is now urgently needed.
Glenn Dillman wrote: “Keith Collins has been a driving force in the Tampa Bay music scene for decades. As the original bass player in Savatage, founder of Keith Collins Krunch, and co-host of ‘The Pit’ radio show on 98rock, Keith helped shape the rise of heavy metal music locally and worldwide. He also published The Spike music magazine and created the Tampa Bay Metal Awards, always working to support and uplift fellow musicians. Keith’s passion and dedication have left a lasting impact on countless lives, including mine as one of his bandmates.
“Now, Keith is facing a difficult chapter. He is suffering from dementia and, due to circumstances early in his life, is unable to qualify for social security benefits that could help with his worsening condition. Without an income, Keith needs help with daily living expenses and, most importantly, legal assistance to establish his identity so he can finally access the benefits he deserves. This support is crucial for his well-being and peace of mind.
“Any help you can give will make a real difference for Keith during this challenging time. Your generosity will not only provide for his immediate needs but also help secure his future. Thank you for supporting someone who has given so much to the music community and to those around him.”
Keith Collins played bass in Savatage between 1981 and 1985, beginning with the group’s earlier incarnation, Avatar. During his time with the band, he appeared on the first three releases: Sirens, The Dungeons Are Calling and Power Of The Night.
For many fans of early Savatage, Collins‘ work remains part of the band’s formative years. The GoFundMe campaign aims to help him meet immediate financial needs while also covering the legal process required to establish his identity and gain access to the benefits he is seeking.
