Isn't it amazing the chain reaction from things we do can cause? The simplest actions can create a beautiful reaction of positivity. You open a door for someone, pick up something someone dropped, let someone go ahead of you in line; all of which cause a person to react - typically with a smile on their face and a "thank you". It's a rarity that I get to witness the reaction that the music created in my studio causes. When I do see it, it changes me forever.
On November 1st, 2011, Drew Seeley, director Marco Infante and I embarked on a journey to Baltimore, MD to experience unforgettable moments through bringing music and hope to children in need through Music is Medicine - a Non-Profit Organization that helps artists create inspiring music experiences for pediatric patients. We were the first "Donate a Song" project for MiM and were just as excited as everyone else to be a part of something so amazing. I had played shows with Drew to large crowds, performed on the radio, travelled all over the US and nothing was like the experience that MiM brought to the table.
Brooke with her mother Tammy.
Drew and I had written and produced "Fly" for a young woman named Brooke, an inspiring, beautiful teenage girl battling bone cancer. When we arrived at Johns Hopkins Hospital we were overwhelmed with the warm welcome and excitement from patients, family and the spectacular individuals with MiM. Initially we sat down with a couple of amazing children also there for treatment to play a couple of their favorite songs - we all sang along! Not long after we moved to another room and welcomed Brooke by performing "Fly" live for her and a several other friends in the unit. The reaction was astonishing - patients moved to the music, smiles lit everyone's faces, and Brooke was swooned by Drew's singing.
“Thanks to you I had the best day of my life! The song is so inspiring and makes me wanna just get up and walk.”
After the performance we took advantage of the opportunity and went around to other patient's rooms to meet and perform for more amazing children. I will never forget the moment we met a very young girl, probably around 11 years old in the burn victim unit. We dressed from head to toe in protective garbs and gloves to help the room stay sterile. As we entered the room you could tell immediately that she knew who Drew was. Her eyes swelled with excitement. She was practically covered in burns. Her hair was gone, and she was fighting for her strength. The nurse in the room sat the girl up and asked her if she wanted to stand up, the girl nodded. With some assistance the young girl stood up, still connected to machines to assist her breathing and monitor her vitals, and reached out to shake Drew's hand. It was difficult to hold back tears and beautiful to witness hope and strength first hand.
These were by far some of the most heart-touching moments I've ever experienced. These children were in pain on the inside and outside, fighting for their lives - and yet they had the strength to smile, participate, be joyous and show us who they are through their actions and words. It was awe-inspiring and I will carry the memories with me the rest of my life. Traveling to Baltimore to spend time with Brooke, her friends, family and multiple other special patients left us all changed. WE are the ones who are grateful for Music is Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the wonderful individuals who take care of these patients every day. We're thankful to everyone involved for allowing us be a part of their lives and helping us bring hope, joy and music to patients.
Fly was released April 6th, 2012. All proceeds are donated to Music is Medicine and pediatric cancer research.
Since "Fly", Music is Medicine has worked with other great artist such as Lucas Grabeel, Maggie Sajak, Sam Tsui, Elle Winter and Savannah Outen. The songs have reached audiences worldwide and continue to spread inspiration and hope for people everywhere.
For more information or to donate to Music is Medicine please visit:
AND
https://www.facebook.com/MusicisMedicine
This post is dedicated to Brooke Shockley who lost her battle to cancer in August of 2012.