Paying Metal Forward was founded by metal heads Pete Altieri and Chris Kovacs. Both wanted to start the organization during the summer of 2013 as a way to help fellow metal heads who were struggling with a serious disease or a similar crisis. Pete Altieri, bass player/singer for Low Twelve fought his own battle with testicular cancer during the summer of 2001. After collapsing after a show in May
of 2001, Pete was taken to the hospital and within only a few minutes was told that he likely had cancer. Blood tests confirmed the diagnosis and after having the tumor removed, Pete had to undergo intensive chemo to tackle the many tumors that were spread throughout his body. With the help of family, friends, and the legions of Low Twelve fans, Pete was able to remain strong and determined to beat the 50/50 odds he was given for survival. Oddly enough, on 9/11/01 he was told that his cancer was in remission. This coming September 11th will mark twelve years cancer free! Chris Kovacs found out on March 5, 2013 that he had a perforated colon due to a mass that literally was strangling his colon. After emergency surgery to remove the mass it was determined that he had stage 4 colon cancer and the cells had spread to his liver. It was at this time that he was contacted by Pete - a former Bethel High School (CT) classmate and fellow metal head. Pete was one of many friends who reached out to Chris in his hour of need. Pete contacted metal bands throughout the US to send Chris CDs, DVDs, or whatever they could spare to help keep his mind off cancer. Chris was buried in packages from metal heads across the country. In addition, Pete arranged phone calls from two musicians that were in one of Chris' all time favorite bands - Fates Warning. These calls helped inspire Chris and gave him the resolve to fight the good fight. Chris said, "I told Pete as soon as I am better I would like to pay it forward. Pete had the same idea and together we came up with the idea of helping people who suffer from any medical issue. I am still going through treatment and my prognosis is to be fully cured by November. I have to believe that the reason why I am doing so well is due to people who I have never met helping a fellow metal head. Not only am I a co-founder of Paying Metal Forward but the first client. \m/"
