If you need a reminder of just how independent from corporate media Clyde Lewis really is, here it is: Ground Zero has been off the air for several days because its host is in the middle of a serious medical crisis. As a result the host is asking fans to help him.
Producer and longtime friend of the show, Ron Patton, has opened a GoFundMe to basically help Clyde pay for life right now .. bills, living expenses, and everything that comes with a health emergency. Clyde isn’t plugged into some big cushy network money machine. He’s not owned by Premiere Radio or any other conglomerate. Ground Zero is run out of his studio in Portland, where he beams paranormal and parapolitical talk across the airwaves night after night. That’s the definition of independent.
Right now, though, that independence comes with a price. Clyde’s ongoing kidney issues have put him in the hospital. We talked the other day about the video he posted for fans from his hospital bed .. it was emotional, raw, and you could tell he was genuinely scared about what’s happening to his body. It honestly sounded like he may have come very close to meeting the “big bug zapper in the sky” he’s joked about over the years.
If you’re a fan, this might be the moment to kick in a couple bucks if you can.. everyone is strapped for cash. But if Ground Zero has ever kept you company on a late night, made you think, made you mad, made you laugh, or just made your shift go faster over the decades, this is one of those times where even a small donation can help Clyde and his staff keep their heads above water.
The following was posted by Ron Patton on the GoFundMe page:
I’m Ron Patton, executive producer of Ground Zero. Clyde Lewis recently encountered a medical emergency due to kidney failure. He’s been in the hospital for a week and is on dialysis, along with getting physical therapy for his legs (lymphedema).
The good news is that his health is gradually improving, and the hope is that he’ll be back to host the show soon.
Thank you very much for your support through prayers and good thoughts. Although Clyde does have medical insurance, there are miscellaneous bills associated with his medical issue. Our primary income source is subscriptions to Ground Zero Plus, but unfortunately, it has stagnated due to Clyde’s illness. Furthermore, our advertising revenue is on hold until he’s back broadcasting. We do not receive any money from our radio syndication.
We also pay for studio rental and have a staff. Can you please help us out with any donation amount? We realize it’s the holidays, and many people are financially strapped, but please donate any amount you can afford to send.
Developing ..
