Geoff Tate Auctioning Queensryche Backdrop to Raise Funds for Assault Victim Bryan Stow

Former Queensryche frontman Geoff Tate is currently on his farewell trek utilizing the band's name, and when the final note is played, the backdrop he's been using on the tour will find a new home for a really great purpose. Tate is auctioning off the backdrop to raise funds for Bryan Stow, a San Francisco Giants fan who suffered brain damage after being assaulted in the Dodgers Stadium parking lot.

The news made national headlines, with Stow being placed in a medically-induced coma after sustaining severe injuries to his brain. It would be months before he was able to go outside and more than two years before he was able to go home.

Shortly after Stow was admitted, Tate's band noticed that he was sporting a sizable Queensryche tattoo, and at the request of a friend, they made a visit to Stow in the hospital.

The vocalist says, "We were incredibly inspired by his love for life, his love for his family and his love of our music." And as such, Tate and his band, which will soon adopt the name of Operation: Mindcrime, continue to support Stow in his recovery by auctioning off the Queensryche stage backdrop that they've used on several tours.

"It's truly a special part of our music history and we'd like to raise some much-needed funds for Bryan so that he can continue his progress," said Tate. "We're honored and thankful to have fans like Bryan in our life and would like to present him with a check just prior to Thanksgiving. Every little bit helps at this point and we hope to continue our efforts for Bryan and his family down the road."

The auction begins this Sunday (Aug. 31), the day after the band's final Queensyrche performance, and will end on Sept. 7. You can access the eBay auction at this location.

In addition, Tate will personally be donating his proceeds from a song titled 'Facing My Demons' that he sung with The Voodoos, who are currently touring with Tate on his farewell tour. The track is currently available for download at iTunes. For additional info on how you can help Bryan Stow in his recovery, check out www.support4bryanstow.com.