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ALBANY, GA --
Jaxon Singletary has gone through more in his short time here than others will in their entire lives.

"Jaxon will be two next month. He was diagnosed with HLHS which is Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. His left ventricle of his heart wasn't fully developed when he was born," said Miles Goosmann, whose girlfriend is a friend of Jaxon’s mother.

The young boy has undergone multiple surgeries and frequently travels to and from hospitals - racking up the medical bills - but last night, the community got together to try and ease some of those costs.

"We're actually hoping to help defray the cost of medical expenses and travel to and from the hospitals in Atlanta and here and just show this family that people care about more things than just themselves," said State Theatre owner Lane Rosen.

Rosen donated his space at the State Theatre and four bands gave musical performances for free as a way to raise money for the family but also show them they're not alone.

"As a parent, that's the part where it kind of touches you to think that. I have two small kids, and when you think about it, it can happen to any one of us. All I’m doing is just donating my time," said Lance Barnes, whose band, Another Alien Astronaut, was third in line to perform.

Those who participated no matter what their role, whether it be musicians, coordinators, or just showing their support, say they were all here for the same important reason: paying it forward.

"That's what's most important about life itself. Paying it forward is where you get the most out of anything. It's not about me or about anybody else, it's about this young boy," said Goosmann, who is also a cancer survivor and received a benefit back in 2008.

"If we're going to ask for everybody to support our music, we've got to show some way of how we support the community so when we have an opportunity like this, we jump on it every time," said Vernon Cruz of Unbreakable Bloodline, the last band to play at the event.

For those who can't pay it forward – literally - participants say it isn't just about money and there are other ways to get involved.

"Showing up at the show, word of mouth, donations, donating your time, anything like that. It's always important. Sometimes you can't give money, but you can help give your time," said Goosmann.