ON BEHALF OF MY FAMILY AND MYSELF
I wanted to write everyone and say a few things, in light of recent events, to dispel any misinformation that may be circulating and to say thank you on behalf of my family and myself to everyone who has shown even the slightest bit of support to us and our efforts as a family to help eradicate this terrible affliction.
My brother, Adam, passed away at 11:52pm Eastern, May 2nd. He was 37 years old and leaves behind his wife and two children. We had played Sunfest in West Palm Beach that night, walking off stage at approximately 11:00pm Eastern, and I rushed to get on a plane to fly to Washington D.C., to be a part of the Race For Hope-D.C., a fundraiser for research and development of a cure for brain cancer. I learned of Adam’s passing upon getting to my hotel around 3:00am Eastern. I decided to run in the race, despite all of this, for two reasons. First, my brother never wanted his illness to affect others. That was evident in the fact that he wanted his illness to have no part in my experience on Idol, a point he was quite adamant about. So, with that wish in mind, I ran and was involved with the event as an homage to him. Secondly, there are many people who are still battling, and by running and sharing my brother’s story, I hope that it offers those still fighting that much more resolve to not succumb to this wretched disease.
I want to again thank everyone who donated to the race and continues to donate, sent a kind email, posted thoughts and prayers, called, etc. I take it as affirmation that my brother was the great man that I knew, and whose ideals I constantly try to uphold in myself. It is with those ideals in tow that I vow to continue to speak out in hopes of raising whatever necessary to help eliminate cancer entirely.
Also, I mentioned earlier that Adam never wanted his illness to affect anyone. So, with the exception of our Toledo, OH, show on May 6th, which we will do everything possible to reschedule, all other shows will go on as scheduled.
Lastly, thank you to everyone for allowing us, as a family, to grieve and come to terms privately. This event has shown me, beyond doubt, that I have the greatest people in my life, family, friends, and fans alike, and for that, I can never offer enough thanks.
~D
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Comments for this Blog post
my prayers
my prayers and heart go out to you... I too have lost someone in this past year may family and friends bring you comfort and love
Surviving Cancer
You are such an inspiration to my family. I listen to your cd all the time. My family and I are dealing with our day/father in law who was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer and we are inspired by you and your stength. Love the song permanent. Any advise would sure help
Inspiring to everyone
I wanted to share with you my deepest sympathies and gratitude at the same time. I have too been inflicted by cancer in my family and am amazed and inspired how you overcame your grief and became a spokesperson for cancer as well as survivors. I recently watched your America's Home Makeover episode as well as your visit with Lyndsey Rose and am touched deeply. You don't do it because of how it will make you look to others, you do it because you care. You can see the deep sense of love and empathy in your face when you talk to survivors and it touches my soul. Your brother is watching you with all that you do and is smiling at you! My uncle died February 3, 2009 of leukemia and I miss him everyday of my life! I too watched him suffer and when I listen Permanent, I remember the hard times and truly feel what you felt. I am trying to develop a way to give back and am looking into supporting our local Children's Hospital cancer unit in Pittsburgh. I work as a therapist for children and adolescents and want to give back like you! You amaze me!
Thank you!!!
My 18 year old brother died in 2006, he had cancer Germ Cell Teratoma, which is from what I understand something you are born with, if this cancer would have been caught when he was younger he would be alive today. In the begining their was hope for a while, he was given KEMO and they said it was working, there was some releif in my family for a while, I lived about 200 miles from him at this time, A while later his doctors recommended that ne go to the mato clinic in Rochester MN to seek another opinion, lucky me that was 30 min from me, he went in and seen the surgeons and then came out, the surgeon told us " there is nothing I can do, If I open him up to remove the tumor in his stomach, he will bleed to death on the table," he had just turned 17. From there on he lived his life the best he could, spent time with all he loved, and established relationships. I got the phone call one morning from my mom, I knew what she was going to say, "James you better come now, They say he aint going to last much longer" he was in Duluth MN, which is 300 miles from me. My wife and I left right away. We got there to his room and walked in, All I could do is smile, I walked to him and told him I was there and gave him a hug, my brother was a joking kind and was half gone he said " get in my belly." I laughed. he passed later that night, he was a slender boy and when he died he looked like he was 9 months pregnant with quads. He donated his eyes so someone else could see.
David, my wife and I fallowed you through American Idol and gave you support all the way, when you first auditioned we new you were the one to win. I want to thank you for writing Permanent, it means so muck to my family, even though it's a sad song it brings us good memories of my brother. I send my heart out to you and your family and again THANK YOU!
jambranchaud@yahoo.com
very saddening
sad news, but it's good to see that you are strong to carry on
LifeCell Wrinkle Cream | tony fitness | Slendertone Flex Belt | usb voip phone | ab rocket | contour review
Family
David
My deepest sympathy to you and your family for your loss.
A loss so deep will take time to heal, but you are strong.
My youngest daugther Carla passed away June 10, 2009.
My prayers are with you.
Christine
Hi Cuz
Hi David,
Okay I owe you an apology. I listened to you for the first time today, (my birthday).
What the apology is for is because we are related [ hey cuz] and I should have listened before.
Say hi to your stepdad and your mom for me. It's been awhile since I've seen them.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
By the way, you are awesome, really awesome.
Christine
My Condolences
My Condolences. You are mt inspiration. My favorite quoat is the same as yours. "Pain dont hurt". I know you will be able to work through this. I can tell you are a truly amazing person.
--Bekah C. Katz
my borthers battle with brain cancer...
Hello David,
I am so sorry about your brother. My thoughts are with you and your family. I know exactally what you all went through and will continue to go through as you remember adam! My brother was diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of 22. It was not cancerous at the time of his diagnosis. Now at age 28 he is in a stage 4 brain cancer. He has had a long hard battle with 5 surgeries gama knife, radiation and chemo. He is now fighting for his life. He was given a month to live on December 3 2009. every day is precious to us as a family. It would be a huge honor to my family and me but most of all to my brother if you would contact me back at svesportschick@aol.com my family would like to speak with you and possible arrange something for his funeral or even a visit. I know thats a lot to ask and i understand if its not possible. Thank you! And again my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Adam will forever be in your hearts and memories as will my brother be in my families hearts and memories forever!
Jamie Waters
svesportschick@aol.com
My sympathys
I am sure your brother is looking down on you every day and praising you for what you are doing and what you stand for. Yes, I am reading this for the first time and tears are running down my face. To lose a sibling is like losing part of yourself.. You will have the past memories and the ones your are creating know for him. My sister has been cancer free for 4 yrs now and has had baby since. God has a purpose for us all. And your parents, did an awesome job raising you. Your givingness will make a mark on others. Keep up the great work. I wish you much success...
Rockin Rhonda
Inspired by you...
Like others have stated, not sure if you read the comments on your blog & I never really do this, but I wanted to tell you how inspiring you and your music are.
It took me some time to build up the courage to post something. My father was diagnosed with brain cancer this past February. I am sure like it was to your family, it came completely by surprise and changed my life. Before cancer struck, he was the only 50 year old man I knew that was never sick, the man never even had a cold, he was healthy, athletic and always took care of himself. Then along comes the silent killer. One day completely healthy 50 year old, next day stage 4 brain cancer with no symptoms whatsoever. How is this even possible? I have been extremely supportive of cancer research every since then, the sad part is, it took knowing someone to make that commitment happen.
I found comfort in your CD. It was probably the only CD that I listened too for about 3 months in my car. Oftentimes putting me to tears. The lyrics of Heroes & permanent stick in my mind all the time. My dad is still with us, but he underwent a clinical trial that has left him paralyzed on his entire left side. But, we are lucky he is still with us, you just don't know.
I was happy to find out that you are coming to Milwaukee. I only wish I could attend your concert! Now that I am back in school for nursing, money is tight! But we appreciate the Milwaukee love. Dealing with my dad's cancer has made me change my career because I want to be there for others who might be dealing with similar things. I want to feel like I am doing something meaningful. Just like you are, your songs got me through some tough times and made me realize I need to cherish all the time that I have.
Congrats on all your success! My husband and I have been a fan since you first sang on idol in auditions. I knew you would go all the way!
Much Love and respect,
JR
I cried!!!
I felt so emotional about the whole thing...i hated to see you go through that and your brother. I'm truely sorry about it david!! I'll continue to keep your family, your brother , and you in my prayers.
--
)
***Savannah*** ( your 13 year old fan
HE WILL BE BY YOUR SIDE
DEAR DAVID,
I'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR BROTHER..I DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT YOUR LOSS....I PRAY FOR YOU TO FIND THE STRENGHT TO GO ON AND I'M SURE YOUR BROTHER WILL LIVE THROUGH YOUR SONGS, AND HE WILL BE ALWAYS BY YOUR SIDE TO PROTECT YOU AND TO GIVE YOU HIS SMILE AND SUPPORT WHENEVER YOU WILL NEED IT.REST IN PEACE SWEET ADAM.
DAVID, ITALY LOVES YOU.ME TOO.
--
Mary
Having no words
Knowing that I have no words to ease the pain of you loss, I am moved to tell you that your song for your brother moves me to tears and gives me hope. All at the same time. EVERYTIME I hear it. I am the older brother in my family. I know how much my brother means to me and I cherish our relationship above all others except the on I have with our Lord and Savior. The strength you showed by running the next day is a testament to Adam and I know he is proud of you unwavering resolve to help others. I was first drawn to you through you music. Even as great as your music is, I am more humbled by you strength. Keep your chin up, your chest out and for goodness sake keep making that great music that is the heartbeat of my day. My thoughts and prayers are, and will always, be with you.
Scott Sellars
David
I would like to say that I am sorry about what happened to you and your family. We all fight the fight. A loved one is truely hard to let go but your brother is somewhere that he is feeling no more pain, he looking down and looking at your family and smiling. Everytime you sing come back to me you get that happy reminder of your brother and the great things that you have shared with each other. Stay strong!
I would also like to add that Come back to me is my favorite song of yours. You know where you hear a song that just gives you the chills and you linger to hear every word well that song does that to me.
You are true inspiration to all of us that want to live the dream of being heard, you give people like me the hope.
I have always wanted to sing and never had the courage and recently I cannot stop singing!
--
Jodi
encouragement
prayers and love for the cooks, keep on david
♥••••••i•would•like•to•introduce•misses•sensitive••••••♥
so sorry
you are such a great guy and im sorry that your brother passed on. Much love to you and your family i just got done seeing you in WV.Great Show!
My Condolences
Dear David,
I am new to your website, but have been a fan of yours since idol. First, and even though this is late, let me send my condolences on the loss of your brother Adam. How are you and your family doing? I know too well what you and your family have been through. I lost my Mom to primary peritoneal cancer and as an oncology and hospice nurse I witness far too often the devastating effects cancer has on my patients and their families. I wish you all peace as you continue to heal. Know that Adam will live on in your hearts and memories and through the way you continue to honor and celebrate his life. He will always be with you. Second, I love your music. Your CD is wonderful and I listen to it often. Are you planning any dates in Rhode Island in the future? Keep up the good work musically and in the fight against cancer.
Love, Rayann
i hope this helps
I can't imagine how terrible this loss must be for you and your family. I'm sure that Adam looks down on you every day and is proud of how hard you are working in the fight against cancer. I want you to know that all of your fans are trying to help you get through this, whether it's by donating money or just by writing a letter. I pray that everyday you and your family will get stronger and will push through these bad times. I really hope that this letter and all of the other letters written by other fans help take the edge off of your pain. I hope that, when you read this, it will brighten your day. I can't express in words how sorry I am.
From the bottom of my heart,
Erin
Terribly sorry for your loss
I am new to this site... but myself as well as my children are huge fans of your music and have been since idol..Permanent is one of all our favs...when I told them about your brother, they were saddened as well as, little as they are.
I feel your pain as I have lost my sister tragically as well. You are an amazing man to celebrate his life and as you say how he didn't want his illness to affect anyone, you didn't let it, instead you still went ahead and did it for him. He is with you always not only in your heart but in spirit watching over you and all your loved ones.
Continue to live life to the fullest and produce such incredibly touching songs, you are an amazing artist and man! I wish you and your family peace and let all the memories bring you happiness and comfort not just tears as he would want you to smile and remember him that way
*hugs*
My Deepest Sympathies
Dearest David,
I am new to your website, but not new to your talent and most of all your brotherly love.
I just wanted to express my deepest sympathies to you and to your family (albeit late).
I know you will do whatever you can to support the cause near and dear to your heart.
With Deepest Sympathies,
BS
I'm So Sorry David
I was there May 2nd, and I was in the 5th row away from the stage. I heard about your brother about 5 days later. After that, I wouldn't eat. I would go to bed early, and I wouldn't talk to anyone. I haven't ever lost anyone to this disease, but I have lost some family. I am so sorry that you had to go through this.
--
Terribly Sorry
Destiny
Celebrate the Life of Adam
Hi David.
I don't know if you actually read these comments that people leave you or not, but if you do, I hope this brings you comfort. I lost my father to brain cancer a little over three years ago. When they first diagnosed him they gave us 3-4 months, but after 5 brain surgeries and radiation/chemo treatments, he lived (if you want to call it that - it was located in the speech and motor skills area) for over 13 years. I watched my father over the course of 13 years change from a vibrant, active & healthy cyclist wither away to someone I didn't even recognize and wasn't able to speak or walk. He had all of his mental faculties, but just couldn't tell his brain to tell his mouth to form & say the words - so basically he was a prisoner trapped within his own body. My father was the funniest, kindest, always there to help others out when in need without even being asked and nobody had a single bad thing to say about my father. I miss his goofiness, the smart ass remarks, his crazy songs he used to make up and sing to me, my three sisters & mom, and the bike rides we used to share together. When we lost him, I was pregnant with my 1st child and I wasn't sure I'd be able to fly back to Michigan to attend his funeral, but eventually my doctor's cleared it. Although I miss him so much and am sad that my father never got to meet my now 3 year old son, Jake it gives me great comfort when I see my son give me a certain look, certain facial expressions, his mannerisms or he does/ says something completely goofy that makes me laugh hysterically, it's my dad I see in him down to the little sparkle in his eye. It's through these subtle things that let's me know my father is still a part of my life and that brings me such joy. It's really strange how everyday things around you (i.e.: a bird singing that shows up every day outside your window all of a sudden, a song/phrase you hear, a smell, people you may see or meet that resemble that someone.) will spark wonderful memories of a lost loved one as if it's their way of saying hey, I'm still with you and don't forget me. I know it's different for each person on how they cope with loss, and you may think my way of dealing with it sounds completely crazy, but that's just how I find comfort. My hope for you and Adam's family is to celebrate his life on this earth, always carry the great memories of him (even if you only want to remember him as he was before he got sick) with you and don't ever forget the love he has placed in all of your hearts. Take care. Sandy Godzina
--
sandyg
David, your attitude matches your gratitude.
I did mess up the blog b4 this. I wanted to make sure to get this right.
One thing that your fans do see in you David is your attitude and your gratitude. You are no where near the blo hard musicians out there that think the world revolves around them. For a creative musician like yourself and your band to actually care what us little people think, is huge to me.
On another note, my Mother died of cancer. I been there, done that. Hold onto those pleasurable moments that pass your way in the wee hours of the night. Take them, hold them, file them away and bring them back out when you need them someday.
Hold tight man! We love you!
And remember.......... Comics........Resistance is Futile!!
--
Comics......Resistance is Futile!
David, your attitude matches his gratitude.
This guy has got it all! Voice, looks, style and grace. His attitude matches his gratitude.
--
Comics......Resistance is Futile!
resurrection
David
I don't know if you read these coments or not, but I want to give you and your family a little hope, I have been through the same thing with my mom, she died in December 2005 from cancer. what gets me through it is knowing I will see her again right here on earth in the near future,I am one of Jehovah Witnesses so everything I say comes from the bible and not me, at John 5,28,29 says " Do not marvel at this,because the hour is coming in whicj all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice ( that is the voice of Jesus ) and come out" also at Acts 24:15 I have hope toward God... that there is going to be a resurrection of both the rightious and the unrighteous." Reveltion 21: 3-4 alway gace me hope where it tells us that we will seen 0ur loved ones again, and there will be no more sickness, death, crime, so this mean that you and I and millions of others will be here right on earth with our loved ones. David I will be at the Lancaster concert on August 20th, I have a brocher that I want to give to you, that will take you right to your own copy of the bible, and if you ever get the chance to run across one of Jehovah Witnesses, ask them any question you might have, I am terrebly sorry for you loss.
Debbie
Adam still lives and smiles......
Mr. Cook,
I am deeply sorry for your family's lost. Through Adam's actions I saw on television and your kind words, I truly believe your brother was an amazing person. I think you were right to run in the race on your brother's behalf and everyone else suffering from cancer. I was lucky enough to have most of my cancerous cells removed. Even though I still struggle everday with pain, I know there are people like you and your brother smiling on me and telling me to keep moving on. I feel you are very courageous for continuing on the way you have. My only brother died when he was 34 and not a day goes by that I have caught myself breaking down in some way. You have really inspired me to keep my head up. Thank you and God bless.........
--
Chanell Bates-Pacatte
Come to montreal
--
I hope to have a chance to see in a concert to montreal^^
Hi!My name is Josée an i am 14year old. My english is not very good and sorry for my error.I most speak french.But, i try speak english for everyone know on quebec we love david!!!
Come to montreal!!!!
I'm sorry... -,[
I'm so sorry about Adam's passing. It's a good thing you ran in the race. I bet your brother is so proud of how far you've come!! rock on David!! And tour w/ Matt Nathanson in Massachusetts so I can finally meet you!!!!!!!! I'm a huge fan!! =]
--
~Alora<33
Continued Prayers...
David~ I was so sorry to hear about your brother's passing, and I wanted to let you know that my thoughts & prayers continue to be with you and your family. Grief can strike at unexpected times, even long after a loved one has passed, so I pray you will always have the space you need to grieve. May you find comfort in the memories and in the knowledge that not even death can break your special bond. I saw the video of you speaking at the Race for Hope, and I was amazed by your strength... I'm positive you have made your brother very, very proud. God bless you and your family!
Adam Cook
David,
That must of been a terrible time for you, and his wife and kids, but then again always remember to keep a smile on your face, because Adam will always be there. Even if you can't see him he will be in your heart and that's what really matters. Adam went to heaven where he won't suffer anymore, where he can watch you and guard you and keep you safe. You may mourn for the first year or so, but after a while it goes away when you remember that he is right by your side. I know what it feels like to have a brother with a cancer like that, even though I never had a family member that had cancer I know your pain. Even though it feels awful it will feel great in a few weeks, just knowing that your brother beat you to the best place that you could possibly be on earth! Cherish all the memories you have left, and the memories still left to come. With my deepest sympathy I send prayers to all of the Cook Family and remember... Adam is still watching over you!
--
David_Cook-ROX
A Prayer To David
Wow,
David you must of felt terrible when he passed on, yet you know he is not suffering anymore and he is in a better place now. Let the Lord bless you and everyone thats in your family!
Long live Adam, and long live the Cook Family
David_Cook-ROX
www.lifestooshorttour.net
Dear Cook Family,
My deepest sympathies on the loss of Adam. About two weeks before Adam's passing, my brother Rich also died unexpectedly from the effects of a brain tumor. Rich was also young - 44 years old - and had been dealing with the complications of his tumor from the time he was a teenager. His loss was an overwhelming shock to our family, and we continue to struggle day by day to come to terms with it, as I imagine your family is doing as well.
As a memorial to my brother, my cousin Thomas is currently riding his bicycle 4,000 miles across the country - from New York to San Francisco – with the goal of raising $1 per mile to support funding for the American Brain Tumor Association (http://www.abta.org/). Thomas is calling his trek the “Life’s Too Short Tour,” and he is documenting the journey at www.lifestooshorttour.net Donations to support the ABTA can be made through a link at that website.
To a man of great strength
David, I hope you realize the immense amount of strength that you showed on the day of your brother's passing. It takes more willpower than you probably realized to not break down the very moment you heard the news. Instead, you continued to do what you knew Adam wanted and did not falter. You should be immeasurably proud of yourself for that. Your brother must be looking down on you grinning, pleased with the man you are. Keep doing what makes you happy and there is no way you can fail.
Sincerely,
Diona
My Mother Also Passed Away from Brain Cancer
Hi David,
I don't know if you actually get these messages or even have time to read them, but here goes. I wanted to thank you for your music, story and wonderful attitude. My mother passed away in January from Lung/Brain cancer. It's a long story so I won't bore you with all of it. She got sick October 31 and was gone quickly by January. We found out it was malignant a week before she died and that was good for her but tragic for me. She was single and I took care of her for those 3 months and ultimately lost my job. No regrets though. Anyway, last year she and I did the Revlon run/walk and this past May I did it again to honor her. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever done and I am amazed at your strength in doing the walk the day after your brother passed away. You are incredible! Your story and music have helped me so much in my grieving and I just wanted to let you know the great impact you have on so many people. I was fortunate enough to go to your concert last thursday in Del Mar, CA and it was wonderful! Because of my employment situation I am unable to financially donate to ABC2, but am wondering if there is another walk for it in CA or if there is another way I could help the charity?
Thank you,
Lisa
Greetings from T Town
--
Cains Ballroon June 23, 2009
Hot sweaty night in T Town...loved the show, live is always so much better!
Come back soon!
And on a more serious note....my heart goes out to your family and yourself concerning the loss of your dear brother Adam. I lost a very dear friend on May 7th to cancer that attacked his brain and lymphnods...as hard as it was to lose a dear friend...it must be even harder to lose a beloved brother. My prayers go out to you and your family. I think you are very courageous to continue on in your brothers memory knowing that this is what he would want you to do. May God richly bless you.
Hugs!
A Prayer
May HIS peace that surpasses all understanding bring comfort and healing to you and your family, David Cook. Just fyi, any time you need a quick boost in your spirit, go to YouTube and type in "baby laughing". The first baby with the blue bib sitting in a high chair is classic! Stay encouraged and blessed.
--
Love Never Fails
Condolences and Concert in Denver (issues...)
First and foremost - our prayers are with you and your family - we are touched by your loss, as millions are, and very touched to witness the love in your family in such an unusual set of circumstances - your brothers illness surrounded by the whole American Idol event and your new future.
I don't know if you actually read these comments - I am adding this in hopes that you or a representative is reading them. My family purchased tickets to your concert in Denver at the Ogden theater on June 26th. They gave me these tickets as a fathers' day gift. Upon looking at the event details, it sayd that all attendees must be 16 years' old or older unless otherwise specified. I was wondering if this was a stipulation of your tour, or if the venue had set this limitation. I am looking to see if they will waive this for my 14 year-old daughter. If not, I am afraid I am going to have to try and get a refund or re-sell the tickets - it wouldn't be much of a family/fathers' day outing if the whole family could not attend. My 18 year-old is even coming in from out of town for the event. We all rooted for you and voted for you, and they thought it would be great for us to go together. I'd appreciate anything you might be able to influence on this matter.
Not sure this is the correct way to get this info to you - especially under the circumstances - but these days there are not a lot of ways to get in touch with the people "running the show" to find out if something can be done. This is the only option I could come up with.
Again, our prayers are with you, thanks for demonstrating for my kids the importance of family and the qualities of determination and pride that you have shown over the years.
May God Bless.
Scott, Tammy, Christina, Jordan and Madison
Bennett, Colorado
Sending my love to you and your family!
First of all my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.I know alot about cancers we have had alot of it in my family.My uncle died of 15 brain tumors,my father died when I was 17 of cancer from Agent Orange pesticles they sprayed in the vet War --My aunt had breast cancer and my mom has Skin cancer. She has had alot of facial surgeries because she had a tumor in the corner of her eye and now she won't go back to doctors to see if it has returned.So to make a long story short, I'll continue to pray for your family and please do so for mine.We love you and wish you all the best in the world.
We will win the fight against cancers!!!
A little of both...
Hi David,
. I believe that could be your reference about Toledo and if so, good for you.
Two things... You are a true Idol and your brother is proud... no question about that. I hope you had some time to yourself to be with your family, bandmates included if you so desired as most would consider as family too
I know others have posted why you have been so amazing as an inspiration, an Idol, and just a blessing to be a fan.... my notes are quick but also relevant...similar to Kimmiechick...
In 2004 I witnessed alone the passing of both of my inlaws a month apart....and the family Schnauzer followed shortly after. My mother in law, Helen, had Brain Cancer for what we believe is 4 years... she was given less than that and fought it the whole way. I was between jobs and took on the responsibility of being her caretaker for the last 3-4 months she was with us. She insisted on me driving to Laughlin in November 2003 to celebrate my birthday so I drove us, pushed her in her wheelchair and as she wished, spoiled myself that weekend on her comps... and we had a blast doing it. She was a "Golden Girl"... her friends chose her to be Blanche, and funny thing, my friends chose ME to be Blanche! So you could say we had a lot in common. LOL I became very close to her and was so blessed to have her as a Mother In Law.
My father in law, Clark, had Throat Cancer from as far back as 2000, possibly earlier, and like KChick (pardon the abbrev), eventually he was on a GTube. His throat was damaged from the radiation treatments and his need to continue to "try to" smoke. The night before he passed he was celebrating that he passed the "Swallow Test" and he'd be back to normal food again. He wanted to watch TV and enjoy the evening alone. My husband and I watched over him as well. The next morning, I went to check on him on my way to a job interview, and he was in his chair, had passed away. Needless to say, I didn't go to that job interview for at least another week...but I got the job and I'm still there.
Each year we spend one of the holidays in their memory in Laughlin and we play on the slot machines they loved most in the casinos they had the most fun in. We inherited their mobile home on the other side of the river and we still hae everything as they wished... Dad's coat rack, Mom's rocking glider chair (which I picked out with her and still love to use when we're there) ....the TV that doesn't get more than 3 channels on a good day... LOL Do you know how hard it is to get people to upgrade?? LOL So it's been a hard 5 years for us, but with the strength and the memories, we continue to live on....
So in their honor and now Adam's, I donate to Idol Gives Back and the Avon Walk. every year. I will eventually do the walks and runs myself but if I tried now, well, a RedBull "doubleshot" wouldn't give me the energy to make it past the first mile. LOL I USED TO WORK OUT!! GO FIGURE! (and not like Go figure, go figure it's your bday... lol) One day. I promise. GIVE ME INCENTIVE DAVID.... PLEASE!!
Besides all that craziness, I want to give you and the band my additional wishes for safe and healthy travels and congratulations on your success, I hope you take good care of yourself. You are an amazing individual with unlimited talent and I can't wait to see you live this summer!! You touch lives and continue to bless us with your music....and that's only a miniscule percentage of why you ROCK!! Know know that you're always in our hearts, you're truly an inspiration to us and we love you. ~Oz~