Taylor Hicks

My brother, Bob is not a veteran of any famous war and was never a war hero, but he is a hero to me.
He was injured while performing training tank manevers in the army.
The tank rolled over on top of him, crushing him beneath, if not for the muddy field he would have died instantly.
Turn's out, that accident will probably eventually lead to his death anyway. There were radioactive packets on that tank and they exploded when the tank crashed.
Bob's body was saturated with radiation and the doctors told him he would develop cancer in the future.
He is now fighting his 3rd bout with this disease.
The only possible way for him to survive this time is for him to let the doctors try extreme experimental procedures on him. But, they say he has nothing to lose, because he will die soon without the treatments and he might die even if he goes through with them.

Anyone who meets Bob will see a strong, funny, friendly, charismatic man. He's a blast to be around and so strong.
Nobody would ever imagine what he is going through. He tells me he's in constant pain but won't let it stop him from living life to the fullest. He does get down at times, but will only confide in his little sister (me), he doesn't want anyone else to know when he is down or in pain.

Somehow, Bob got the word that I love Taylor's music and that Taylor was having a show in Houston, Tx and on the spur of the moment told me we were going. I struggled with the decision to go or not, cause you see, I would have to put in a full days work, drive 3 hours to Houston, see the show, drive back and go to work early the next morning. But, he really wanted to spend some special time with me. So, I said what the heck, I'll go! I mean what could be better than spending time with my brother and seeing my fave musician! We went to the show and had a blast. Me, front and center transfixed by every word Taylor sang. Bob hovering towards the back, enjoying the show and watchin over me.

On the loooong tiresome drive home, he unloaded alot of his worries and fears on me. We had to stop half way beacuse he became very ill. We made it home safe.

He told me he really like Taylor's music and that he broke down and cried when Taylor sang "Nineteen". A lady standing next to him at the concert made sure he was o.k. and he was, but just over-come with emotion.

You see, even though he is not a decorated war hero like the kid in "Nineteen" he is still a veteran and a hero to me.

Nineteen has been one of my favorite songs since "The Distance" came out, but now it holds an even more special place in my heart. The only thing is, it's hard for me to listen to it now without breaking down.

Thanks, Taylor for bringing my brother and I closer together.

He's still fighting!!!!!

Patty

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Comment by Gr8fulheart on November 12, 2009 at 10:54pm
What a beautiful post. Thank you for sharing it with us & may God bless Bob for watching over his little sister. He is definately a hero!♥
Comment by Patty Rardin on November 12, 2009 at 7:47pm
Thanks to all of you. We could use all the prayers you can send up.
Comment by Denise Hill Barlow on November 12, 2009 at 12:02pm
Your story touched my heart and tears welled up in my eyes. And I agree with the last comment....Your brother is a hero. Thank you for sharing his story.
Comment by TaylorNanster on November 12, 2009 at 11:51am
Patty, tell your brother he's a hero. Please thank him for his service to our country. I hope and pray that one of those experimental treatments will help him. He is in my thoughts and prayers, as are you.
Comment by Tish Pomykal on November 11, 2009 at 10:54pm
Patty.......I had no idea when I saw you and met your brother, Bob in Houston how sick he was. Thanks for sharing your heartfelt story. Bob is a true hero.
Comment by deeppurple on November 11, 2009 at 5:53pm
{{{{{{{Patty}}}}}}} God bless your brother, Bob. He sounds like a strong brave man. A hero. My prayers go out to him.
Comment by Patty Rardin on November 11, 2009 at 5:26pm
Thanks to all of you for your gracious comments.
Comment by mouser on November 11, 2009 at 4:59pm
What a moving story Patty! What a special person your brother must be! Heroes are those who respond positively with acts of courage and being stoic and a standup guy who looks at life without bitterness is heroic in my eyes.
Comment by Jennifer Jacobs on November 11, 2009 at 4:48pm
Thank you Patty for telling us the full story about your brother. Everything NolaMar said is how I feel as well. I send out my best wishes to you, your brother, and the rest of your family.
Comment by Nancy Paonessa/Nancymunchkin on November 11, 2009 at 4:48pm
Oops noticed a typo I meant to say I know that it can't hurt but the typo looks bad, sorry about that, the tought was there.

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