RONNIE JAMES DIO Honored With Cancer Detection Lab Dedication at UCLA On His 83rd Birthday

Legendary heavy metal vocalist Ronnie James Dio was honored on what would have been his 83^rd birthday with a touching tribute from the non-profit founded in his memory. A room within the UCLA Center for Oral/Head & Neck Oncology Research (COOR), part of the UCLA School of Dentistry, was officially dedicated as the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout Saliva Storage Room.

The commemorative plaque outside the newly named room was unveiled by Dio's widow, Wendy Dio, alongside Dr. David Wong, professor and director of the COOR. They were joined by members of the Board of Directors of the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund, including board chair Tim Murch, Delilah Dio Gimenez, Sabrina Ment, founder-president Wendy Dio, Sean McNabb, Sharon Weisz, medical director Dr. Sandy Kapoor, Adam Parsons, Sheila Melody, Robin Shaw, and Paul Newman.

Since 2016, the Dio Cancer Fund has supported Dr. Wong's pioneering research into EFIRM liquid biopsy technology — a non-invasive saliva test for early cancer detection. The newly dedicated storage room houses thousands of saliva samples used in this cutting-edge research. Dr. Wong's team has already secured a five-year, $4.6 million NIH grant to advance early detection for lung cancer and has applied for additional funding to focus on gastric cancer, the disease that took Ronnie James Dio's life in 2010.

"Ronnie's stomach cancer was detected far too late, and I know that if the liquid biopsy was available back then, his cancer might have been detected earlier and saved his life," said Wendy Dio. "Because of Dr. Wong's research, it is possible to imagine a world where a routine visit to your doctor or dentist for a simple swab of saliva can save your life. We are so grateful for Dr. Wong and his passion and commitment to furthering this vital research."

The dedication follows the Dio Cancer Fund's latest successful Rock For Ronnie benefit concert at its new home at the Autry Museum in Griffith Park, which raised over $100,000. Through events like Rock For Ronnie and the annual Bowl For Ronnie — returning November 13 at PINZ Bowling Center in Studio City — the organization has raised more than $2.5 million to date.

The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund is a 501(c)(3) public charity committed to raising awareness and funds for cancer prevention, education, and research for a cure — continuing Dio's legacy of strength, resilience, and hope.