Latest news with #JD Twitch
Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Over £20K raised for Glasgow DJ legend after 'untreatable' brain tumour diagnosis
A crowdfunder has been launched to support legendary Glasgow DJ Keith McIvor, better known as JD Twitch, as he faces a terminal brain tumour diagnosis. Keith, one half of the pioneering DJ duo Optimo, was recently diagnosed with glioblastoma—an aggressive, inoperable and untreatable form of brain cancer. His condition has rapidly progressed, affecting his speech, mobility, and independence, and he now requires 24-hour nursing care. READ MORE: Glasgow DJ Keith McIvor has reveals brain tumour battle The fundraiser was created in response to a wave of messages from friends, fans and supporters worldwide, many of whom have asked how they can help. While Keith's family and close friends emphasise they expect nothing, the campaign is offering a way for supporters to make a direct impact in his final weeks. The organisers explain: 'We've held off to explore every option. "But now believe this crowdfunder is the most concrete and transparent way to channel people's goodwill.' The fundraiser has so far surpassed the halfway mark of their goal with a current total of £26,738. The family made the difficult decision to move Keith into a private residential nursing facility. This environment currently offers him the best quality of life, with full support from his GP. While still able to communicate with patience and support, and not in pain, Keith is now extremely vulnerable, unable to walk unaided and dependent on others for his safety and care. READ MORE: Still Game icon spotted at TRNSMT – and was buzzing to see this one huge act Efforts are still being made to explore alternative accommodation with a full care package, but organisers say that establishing this in time has been stressful, complex, and logistically challenging. The fundraiser's initial goal is to support 8 to 12 weeks of respite care. Immediate funding will go towards: Private nursing care, where Keith is currently being looked after. Physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and counselling; Accessible transport, equipment, and other palliative care essentials. If funds allow, future support may include: Setting up accessible private accommodation; Securing a long-term full private care package; Exploring non-NHS treatment options, should any viable therapies emerge. Organisers also stress that 20% income tax and platform fees apply to all donations, as this is a personal fundraiser rather than a registered charity campaign. The crowdfunder highlights the emotional and practical toll on Keith's family, especially his wife, who lives with her own serious long-term health conditions and has cancelled major surgery to remain by his side. The campaign states: 'Navigating this situation has been incredibly hard. 'We know we're fortunate to even have private care as an option and realise this is a very privileged position to be in. "We're painfully aware that access to safe, appropriate end-of-life care is often out of reach for so many families — and we believe this is a failing of the system, not of those needing care.' READ MORE: Nearly 10 roads to close for 'extra special' event taking place in Glasgow Keith McIvor is best known for helping shape Glasgow's electronic music scene over two decades through Optimo and their legendary Sub Club night. Known for his fearless musical experimentation and community-driven ethos, Keith remains a beloved figure in the global music scene. If more money is raised than needed, the remaining balance will be donated equally to causes close to Keith's heart: Glasgow NW Foodbank Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER) Brains Trust Taki's Shelter, an animal rescue organisation in Crete The crowdfunding concluded: 'We still hope that Keith can look forward to many happy days ahead. 'In comfort and with his loved ones — to live out the remainder of his life in dignity, surrounded by support and good vibes flowing toward him.' The fundraising page can be found here.
BBC News
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Optimo DJ diagnosed with untreatable brain tumour
One half of legendary Glasgow clubbing duo Optimo has revealed he has been diagnosed with an untreatable brain McIvor, aka JD Twitch, posted news of the diagnosis on social with Jonnie Wilkes he ran Optimo Espacio - one of the city's most loved club nights - for 13 years between 1997 and 2010 at the Sub Club said it had been an honour to make a living doing something he loved. He wrote: "Following extensive tests I've been diagnosed with a brain tumour and I have been told my condition is untreatable. "As you can imagine, I am currently trying to process this news and prioritising spending precious time with the people I love." The DJ added the diagnosis had progressed rapidly, and his health had worsened very said he truly appreciated "everyone's love and concern, it means the world to me" and that he trusted Wilkes would continue making music under the Optimo wrote: "Jonnie and I have been lucky enough to play our music at countless clubs and festivals throughout the world and it has been one of the greatest honours of my life to make a career out of something I love. "We have connected with so many beautiful souls through our shared passion for music." Wilkes to continue Optimo Espacio McIvor was originally from Edinburgh but moved to Glasgow to attend university, which was when he began to Edinburgh he established famed night Pure in the 1990s, before setting up Optimo in 1997 with his friend Wilkes, who uses the name JD Wilkes when performing. The night was known for its eclectic music and proved hugely popular, while the pair continued to tour and release music after the club night concluded. Wilkes wrote on social media it was "painful to put into words" how he said: "Keith and I have been through so much together in our 28-year partnership. We are connected in a way that perhaps only he and I can understand. "I do know however, that if you ever heard us play together then you will have realised how deep that connection is. "I love you Keith. You inspired me like nobody else could and I'm so proud of what we've done together."I will continue Optimo (Espacio) with you always in my heart. The music will speak for both of us. Your anarchic spirit and your ferocious energy is all around me."
