In 2016, Florence Welch and guitarist Rob Ackroyd from Florence + The Machine delivered a deeply meaningful performance to 15-year-old Karinya Chen, a high school sophomore facing terminal cancer. Described by her hospice nurses as “skin and bones,” Karinya’s dream of seeing her favorite band live came true when Florence and Rob visited her at Christopher House for a private acoustic set.
Karinya, who had last seen the band in 2011 and was looking forward to their upcoming Austin concert, was heartbroken when a nurse had to tell her she wouldn’t be able to attend. Devastated, Karinya’s mother, Cat Shiang Chen, reached out to the band. Florence, then 30, and Rob, 34, came to the hospice the day after their Austin gig, bringing merch and signing Karinya’s arm in Sharpie.
The band performed a stripped-down version of their hit “Shake It Out” for Karinya, her family, and classmates. Florence’s voice, rich and emotive in the acoustic setting, blended beautifully with Karinya’s harmonies, earning praise from her idol. The performance, which has garnered 1.8 million views on YouTube, was further highlighted by a viral video of Karinya and Florence singing “The Dog Days Are Over,” which has over 27.6 million views.
Karinya, who was battling paraganglioma, described the experience as “the best day of my life.” Her mother expressed deep gratitude for the band’s kindness. Hospice worker Melinda Marble noted that the visit had a profound impact on Karinya, lifting her spirits and bringing her joy.
Sadly, Karinya passed away in October 2016, just five months after her special day with Florence + The Machine. Despite her illness, she remained positive, sharing her faith and message of hope with others.