Lubbock singer and songwriter Donnie Allison entertained thousands prior to his death in 2011 at the age of 49. In January 2007, Donnie was diagnosed with a cancer in his mouth that threatened his career. He fought hard, and made a return to the stage two years later. During his battle, Donnie and his wife created the Celebrate Today Fund at UMC, which helps cancer patients at UMC.