In memory of Robin Williams, give to St. Jude

Anyone who knows me (and some who don’t) may have noticed by now that I haven’t handled Robin Williams’ death too well.  I’ve survived many of my favorite celebrities, and even written about a few of them after they died.  As I wrote Monday night, I wasn’t finished with Robin.  Despite what was going on inside him, he sure seemed to project a lot of life on the outside, and I thought he’d be around for a long time.  Certainly, we never thought he would take his own life, which compounds our sorrow.

Seeing, and replaying some of his best TV and movie clips has been both enjoyable and heartbreaking.  I’m glad they’re still with us, but I’m sad he won’t be making any more memories for us.  Selfishly, my immediate reaction to the news of his death, was all about me.  “I won’t be able to see him do his stand-up act, which I’ve always wanted to do.  I’ll never be able to meet him, to interview him, and tell him how much joy he has brought to me.”  Me, me, me.  Poor me. How typical.  I should be better than that.

Thankfully, I found something to refocus my grief in the right direction.  Robin’s family has graciously requested that fans send donations to some of his favorite causes in lieu of flowers.  With apologies to my florist friends, I’ve never been a “send flowers” person.  I always prefer to honor someone by making a donation to a program that can help the living.

As you may remember, Robin was a great supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.  My employer, WRCB, and my radio friends at US-101 have also adopted St. Jude as a charity partner.  How much did Robin love those kids who undergo treatment at St. Jude?  Take 30 seconds, and watch this:

Got 30 more seconds? Here’s one from November of last year:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mimuo6_ZZaw

I’m about to make a small donation to St. Jude in memory of this man who made me laugh so much, and who made me cry more than I’d like to admit.  His life meant something to millions of us, and his sad departure from us has too.  We’re talking out loud about depression, mental health and suicide, and people are seeking help today who might not have otherwise.  And if you’re able, I hope you’ll donate to St. Jude too.  It’s the best way to honor the memory of this unforgettable man.  It’s easy to do: just click HERE and then click “Donate Now” in the upper right-hand corner.  Thank you.