Help Phil Stay Afloat As He Fights Cancer

My name is Bob Sanders. Paul Manaster and I are raising money to help our friend Phil Evans after his kidney cancer diagnosis.

I have known Phil for a long time, but I got to know him well on Pacific Symphony’s 2006 European tour. His dad had just passed away and I thought he could use some company. We walked, talked, and ate together for the duration . . . and a friendship was born.

For those who do not know Phil, he is a fine freelance clarinetist who was born and lived and worked in the Southern California area. He performed, toured, and recorded with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony, and many other SoCal orchestras for more than thirty years. I know very few people who love music as much as Phil does.

Phil was diagnosed with kidney cancer in October of 2023 and one kidney was removed in January of this year. There have been complications and confusion medically since. He remains in considerable pain and the possibility of metastasis has not been ruled out. Further testing and treatment lie ahead. So far, Medicare and his supplement plan have paid for everything, but coverage for specific future testing and treatment is unknown. Phil is unable to work presently and likely to remain so during the course of treatment.

Six years ago, Phil moved to Arizona. He has been living frugally on Social Security and a modest pension, sharing an apartment with his brother, and barely making ends meet. Tragically, Phil’s brother passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in April, breaking his heart and doubling his rent and utilities. Probate, etc., will present further issues, but his brother's estate appears to be negligible.

Phil needs help to stay in his apartment, to buy food; in short, to live. Please consider making a donation and sharing this fundraiser with your network to help spread the word.

Thank you,

Bob