Our Country

Taylor Swift Performs Affecting New Ballad At ‘Stand Up To Cancer’ Benefit

By | Our Country – Sat, Sep 8, 2012 1:14 PM EDT

Swift performs "Ronan" on telethonTaylor Swift has won yet another award--an unofficial one, that is, but one of the best in her collection--the "sweetest singer around" prize. Swift showed off her heart of gold on Friday night when she debuted a new song at the Stand Up To Cancer telethon that she wrote especially for a tiny patient who lost his battle with the disease.

"Ronan" is Swift's tribute to a preschool-aged boy who died from Stage 4 neuroblastoma last year. She wrote the affecting ballad with the help of Ronan's mom, Maya Thompson, who kept a blog about her son's fight to live, as well as detailing how Swift's music helped her through the pain of losing him.

The song is now available online and is already No. 2 on iTunes' Top Songs chart. Proceeds are slated to go to cancer charities. Whether you are a parent or simply just a person with a heart, Swift's composition will likely bring tears to your eyes--it details a mother's love for her child; memories of his laughter, little feet, toys, and happiness...as well as the indescribable pain of losing him. "Come on baby with me/We're gonna fly away from here/You were my best four years."

Dozens of stars showed up to support the Stand Up To Cancer telethon, an hour-long program that was carried commercial-free by the major broadcast networks and a number of cable channels. Standout musicians in attendance included Swift, Tim McGraw, Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys, and Coldplay. You can find out more about the organization, as well as make a donation if desired, here.

Related Links:

PHOTOS: Highlights from the 2012 VMAs
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