Keith, one half of the pioneering DJ duo Optimo, was recently diagnosed with glioblastoma—an aggressive, inoperable and untreatable form of brain cancer.
His condition has rapidly progressed, affecting his speech, mobility, and independence, and he now requires 24-hour nursing care.
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The fundraiser was created in response to a wave of messages from friends, fans and supporters worldwide, many of whom have asked how they can help.
While Keith’s family and close friends emphasise they expect nothing, the campaign is offering a way for supporters to make a direct impact in his final weeks.
The organisers explain: “We’ve held off to explore every option.
“But now believe this crowdfunder is the most concrete and transparent way to channel people’s goodwill.”
The fundraiser has so far surpassed the halfway mark of their goal with a current total of £26,738.
The family made the difficult decision to move Keith into a private residential nursing facility. This environment currently offers him the best quality of life, with full support from his GP.
While still able to communicate with patience and support, and not in pain, Keith is now extremely vulnerable, unable to walk unaided and dependent on others for his safety and care.
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Efforts are still being made to explore alternative accommodation with a full care package, but organisers say that establishing this in time has been stressful, complex, and logistically challenging.
The fundraiser’s initial goal is to support 8 to 12 weeks of respite care. Immediate funding will go towards:
Private nursing care, where Keith is currently being looked after.
Physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and counselling;
Accessible transport, equipment, and other palliative care essentials.
If funds allow, future support may include:
Setting up accessible private accommodation;
Securing a long-term full private care package;
Exploring non-NHS treatment options, should any viable therapies emerge.
Organisers also stress that 20% income tax and platform fees apply to all donations, as this is a personal fundraiser rather than a registered charity campaign.
The crowdfunder highlights the emotional and practical toll on Keith’s family, especially his wife, who lives with her own serious long-term health conditions and has cancelled major surgery to remain by his side.
The campaign states: “Navigating this situation has been incredibly hard.
“We know we’re fortunate to even have private care as an option and realise this is a very privileged position to be in.
“We’re painfully aware that access to safe, appropriate end-of-life care is often out of reach for so many families — and we believe this is a failing of the system, not of those needing care.”
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Keith McIvor is best known for helping shape Glasgow’s electronic music scene over two decades through Optimo and their legendary Sub Club night.
Known for his fearless musical experimentation and community-driven ethos, Keith remains a beloved figure in the global music scene.
If more money is raised than needed, the remaining balance will be donated equally to causes close to Keith’s heart:
Glasgow NW Foodbank
Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER)
Brains Trust
Taki’s Shelter, an animal rescue organisation in Crete
The crowdfunding concluded: “We still hope that Keith can look forward to many happy days ahead.
“In comfort and with his loved ones — to live out the remainder of his life in dignity, surrounded by support and good vibes flowing toward him.”
The fundraising page can be found here.
