When Jimmy Callahan's band, James and the Van DerBeeks (formerly The Jimmy Minx band) recently took the stage at McNally's Pub in Elmhurst, the gig started much like any other. By then end of the night, however, James and the Van DerBeeks had raised nearly $800 on behalf of Friends For Steven and pediatric cancer research.

"I was lucky," says 23 year-old band founder, lead singer and guitarist, Jimmy Callahan when he talks about surgery he underwent in January to remove a benign brain tumor. "The whole thing was so traumatic and I was even okay. After that, I wanted to do something for others who go through much worse."

Jimmy learned that a 4 year-old neighbor boy and another young boy from his parish both had neuroblastoma, a rare and deadly pediatric cancer. His desire to help them and their families lead him to Friends For Steven and the chance to help by doing what he loves to do: play music.

Other band members are: Dan Parker, base; Jim Connors, drums; Jeff Rotis, lead guitar. Hear James and the Van DerBeeks at McNally's Pub on April, 25th, 9:30 to close. McNally's is located at 122 South York Road, Elmhurst. Phone; 630-941-7100 for details.