Arts.Advocacy+Wellness: "Remembering Patrick Swayze"

Patrick knew and we all knew that the remainder of his time with us on Earth was limited. On Monday September 14, 2009 alongside his family, our friend, Mr. Swayze transitioned to a safer place. Our hearts and prayers are with his family and friends.

I remember my first introduction to Patrick Swayze. It was via cablevision, HBO to be exact, at my cozy little home on the northside of Richmond, VA. I was nine years of age. Patrick portrayed the role of Johnny Castle alongside his co-star Jennifer Grey (Baby) in Dirty Dancing, and oh...how he inspired me to dance and to dance with fire!


Patrick gave us stellar performances in many other films as well, more notably, and my favorites of all time: Ghost and To Wong Fu...Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar. Remnants of these performance continues to permeate my soul like the morning sunrise.


His long, courageous, and outspoken fight with pancreatic cancer was a brave one. Even in the limelight of Hollywood and its glamorous accessories, Patrick's humble and sharing spirit helped me realize that no matter who we are or become, we are all still human.

Thanks for Everything, Patrick...You'll be missed.PS. Say hello to Jerry, Michael, Farrah, and Bea for me.