Body piercer Paul Van Noy was diagnosed last September with Stage Four lymphoma. A month ago, an MRI revealed something even worse: Van Noy had cancer in his spinal column.


For three years, Van Noy has worked as a body piercer at Kenny Curtis Custom Tattoos and has become best friends with owners Kenny and his wife Penelope.


“If it belongs to you, Paul can pierce it,” it states on the tattoo shop’s website. 


Van Noy died Jan. 28. At the time of this writing, he hadn’t pierced a body part for several months, and he had been completely bed-ridden.


But he didn’t fear death.


“At this point, he’s ready to go,” Penelope says. “He’s at peace.”


Ever since Van Noy was given the first piece of bad news, him and his wife Devon’s lives have been on hold. And there was no time for work between all the doctor’s visits and chemo treatments. The expenses have piled up. 


Though Van Noy has passed, the Curtises and Meana Sanchez-Verducci are hosting a music benefit featuring four local bands at East Village to raise money to help cover medical bills and funeral costs and, most importantly, honor their friend. 


Headliners The Thirsty Three, a trio out of Santa Cruz and Hollister, are part psychobilly, part hillbilly and loud as hell (in a good way). On the speedy “Psychobilly Breakdown,” they meld heavy surf rock and punk into a tasty dish of pure, guitar-driven bliss. Prog rockers Strawberry Girls, psych rockers The Redlight District and pop punkers Our Hearts Alive also play. 


In addition to the plethora of music, there will also be a display of tattoo art from local artists including Van Noy. 


“At this point, this is the only thing we can do to support [Van Noy’s family],” Penelope says. “I’m overwhelmed with generosity of our community.” 


FUCK YOU CANCER! Benefit Show for Paul Van Noy begins 6:30pm Saturday, Feb. 4, at East Village, 498 Washington St., Monterey. $10 (includes compilation of performing bands to the first 50). 373-5601.