Sixteen-month-old Callum Robbins and his parents may never meet face-to-face with Kip Thomas. But Kip recently coordinated with four Atlanta bands to make a lasting impression on Callum and his family’s lives.

Callum was diagnosed several months ago with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type I. SMA is a genetic disease that affects neurons that control voluntary muscles. Type I SMA, also known as Infantile SMA, is the harshest form of the disease. Children with Infantile SMA have difficulty raising their heads, moving their arms and legs, feeding and even coughing. The cruel reality is that those diagnosed with Type I SMA have a life expectancy of fewer than two years. There are, however, expensive treatments available for families living with SMA I.

So what was it about Callum’s case that attracted Kip’s attention? The answer is ‘J.’, Callum’s dad.

“I’ve been a fan of J. Robbins’ work since I picked up Government Issue’s You in 1987,” Kip said.

J. Robbins has been an active contributer to the independent music scene for more than two decades. J. played bass with Government Issue, fronted the legendary Jawbox and has produced and engineered music for an array of bands ranging from The Promise Ring to Against Me!. His most recent project has been a collaboration with Janet Morgan, Callum’s mom and J.’s wife, and drummer Darren Zentek in a band called Channels. Suffice it to say that J.’s work continues to leave an indellible impression on thousands of musicians and fans alike, Kip among them. And when word of DeSoto Records’ page dedicated to Callum reached Kip, he knew he had to do something to help.

“I just thought of all of the financial sacrifices he’s (J.) made as an independent musician and recording engineer. I play music, and I know you don’t get rich touring, writing, producing at this level,” he said. “It’s a heartbreaking story that someone who has given so much to so many people should be dealt this hand, and I thought, What if this were to happen to me?”

Kip’s answer was to organize a benefit, aptly called For Callum.

On May 13th, 2007, four Atlanta bands: Lay Down Mains, Scars, Forever War and Mistaken For Them assembled at Eyedrum to raise money for Callum. Mistaken For Them played a blistering debut set. Forever War is Kip Thomas and friends, and they played amazing. Scars, formerly called Estrada in the mid ’90s, also played a great set. It was great to see them back in action. Lay Down Mains took the stage late in front of a thinning Sunday night crowd, but they delivered a fervent set that prompted a request for an encore.

It was a gorgeous night, perfect weather. Everyone was in the best mood, knowing they were out to have fun and support a good cause. The bands and the fans were outstanding. I was very happy to be a part of it.

Kip reported that the For Callum benefit at Eyedrum raised $1,000 to help the Robbins family. A recent posting to Channels’ Myspace blog reads “Callum is doing really well at the moment – a huge thank you to everyone for all the support, thoughts and love – it helps!”

To donate to Callum’s treatment fund: http://www.desotorecords.com/cal/
To read about Callum’s progress: http://callumrobbins.blogspot.com/