In early 1999 BlackHawk founding member Van Stephenson was diagnosed with melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer. Before his passing in 2001 his dying wish to Henry and Dave was that the band continue on, saying "there's a lot more music left in BlackHawk," and do all it can to help find a cure for cancer.

To honor this wish the Van Stephenson Memorial Cancer Research Fund was established in 2001. Contributions can be mailed to:

Van Stephenson Memorial Cancer Research Fund
c/o BlackHawk
PO Box 121804
Nashville TN 37212

Please make checks payable to "Van Stephenson Memorial Cancer Research Fund."

Awareness of this charity is elevated through the sale "Ships of Heaven" tee shirts as well as cute little bears both bearing Van's likeness. Available at BlackHawk concerts and on this website, 100% of the proceeds from these tees and lovable little critters go to cancer research.

Together, we can help the search for a cure for this devastating disease.

Our continued thanks to all for your support!