A Personal Letter From D.F.

Sign up for Dan Fogelberg News

Please join us in sending your prayers, positive thoughts and support to Dan, his family and friends as he battles his illness.

Please feel free to share your thoughts here.

American Cancer Society Donation Page
Prostate Cancer Foundation



Lights Of Healing

Let it shine...


June 18 - 24, 2006
To Dan Fogelberg: For decades I have admired your soul and spirit for writing  some of the most endearing and relatable songs I've ever heard. I want to wish  you the very best in your ongoing battle with prostate cancer. I am a breast  cancer
survivor and had the misfortune of being among the misdiagnosed. I was  stage 2 when they confirmed it. If not for the undying love and devotion from my  beloved husband, I never would have pulled through. The treatments were brutal,  but I can look back with a feeling of triumph at having won a battle fiercely fought and bravely won. Keep your spirits high and be positive. Everything will  work out, and you are in my daily prayers. You are a survivor, my  friend. Best regards and blessings ~ Donna Ksepka

Dear Mr. Fogelberg; My sincere and heartfelt prayers are sent to Him for you, as a thank you. You have no idea how many lives you’ve touched, and the enormity of the help you’ve been to others.  I want to thank you for helping me. Your music helped me to heal, and return to my life after losing my only son to leukemia. I was lost and numb for a number of years, but when I heard “Nether Lands” it touched something deep inside of me, and the healing started. I listened to all of your music constantly for years, and identified with it immensely. I don’t know how I could have survived without it.

As has happened many times over the years, I've just been listening to some of your songs, and pouring over the lyric sheets.  Your lyrics and your songs have always spoken to me in an incredible way.  My oldest daughter is getting married next year, and tonight we host our future son-in-law's parents.  As I search for something poignant to say in a toast to our kids, I find myself reaching, once again, for your lyrics for inspiration.

It is only now that I see that you've been fighting cancer.  I wish you the very best.  I survived a pretty significant heart attack back on 12/1/05.  Mortality is a pretty scary concept, especially at a young age.  With a bit of luck, perhaps we can both be here enjoying life and our families for many more years.  Thank you for all the joy that you've given me over the years.  I hope that some of what you've done for "us" can be returned in the form of magical good wishes.~ Dan Lemire, Brookfield, CT

Continued prayers and hopes for your struggle. Your father led my mother's Melody Maids group at PCHS. I met you backstage after your concert at Glen Oak Amphitheatre when "Captured Angel" was just coming out. Also--I'm a 30 year cancer survivor and hope the best for you. It's an ugly disease and so far I've been lucky/fortunate. I hope  much of the same goes for you as well. Thanks for what your music has meant to me since that night and shaking your hand! ~ Dan Monge

Hello Dan, I have been a huge fan since the 70s and own many of your albums, cds and tapes and continue to listen to them constantly.  Unfortunately I hope whoever stole my tapes is enjoying your music now.  Now I get the chance to buy new Dan Fogelberg music. My husband and I had the great pleasure of seeing you back in 1992 when you appeared at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis.  We bought the live video of the concert and still watch it.  May your health improve and you live a long and happy life.  You and your family are in my thoughts. ~ Diane from Missouri

I happened to watch the Soundstage concert that you did 3 years ago.  I am praying for you daily. My husband and I saw you at least 3 times in Chicago.  Please let us know how you are doing.  We care so deeply.  ~ Don and Linda

I have been a die-hard fan of Dan Fogelberg since 1981 and The Innocent Age.  My college fiance had all your previous albums, and when we broke up, I stole all of your albums from him.  When cassettes came along, I re-bought all of your stuff.  When CD's came out, I re-bought all of your stuff AGAIN.  Now that I have an I-pod, you go everywhere with me.  My kids make terrible fun of me because of the "cheesy" music I listen to, but pooey on them.  I saw you live in concert in 1982 and it was one of the best live concerts I have been to, to this day.  You are ever in my prayers, ever in my thoughts.  You have changed and touched so many of our lives, let us touch you through our prayers.  The Lord is my strength and my song.  He has become my victory.  Exodus 15:2 ~ Tammy Mansfield, Hattiesburg, MS

We pray daily  for you and your family.  My husband's father has prostate cancer, we know what you are going through.  Keep fighting, keep praying.  Remember that God is a big God and will hear your concerns.  We miss you.  ~  The Parenti's, Chicago
I am positively inspired by the outpouring of love and concern I have read on this website.  It is amazing how people have connected on a personal level with you through your music.  I have known and worked with multiple musicians in my life, but I must say that your music has touched me far more than any other.  I became hooked on your music my freshman year of college when this absolutely gorgeous and very intelligent pre-med student put it on in his living room while trying to seduce me , unsuccessfully, on our first date.  I dumped him, but kept your music in my life from that day on.  I, too, have traveled many roads during the past 25 years, but your music is a constant ...especially in this day when I desperately search for words that have content and meaning in this world which sometimes seems to  be void of either.  My brother loves you, too, and he has just been sent to Iraq for a year.  I will keep you both in my prayers.  I wish you full recovery, and send you the knowledge that you have touched and inspired so many through your music.  Best wishes.  We look forward to another concert one day if that is meant to be. ~ Lynda M., Burlington, NC

I just heard about your on-going battle of this terrible illness.  All of my prayers and best wishes go out to you and your family in this extremely, challenging time.  You've touched so many people through the years, and I'd like to express a gigantic Thank You!! You're thought of always with much love & respect. ~ Rae

Dear Dan, I am writing this to wish you the very best in your recovery. I would love nothing more than to hear some new music from you, however your health is the most important thing at this time and you should focus on that alone. In the meantime, I continue to listen to the magnificent music you have produced so far and still take great pleasure from that. Again, my best wishes to you for a speedy recovery and may your days be filled with joy and happiness. ~ Maddie Rooney, (Ontario, Canada)

Greetings to you Dan, I feel like I know you personally through your music. My husband courted me 30 years ago this year with singing your songs and listening to your LP's back then... I still listen and your words and music have brought peace to my soul in quiet times that I am able to find raising 3 boys. Two are grown now and my youngest is 16 and he picks the guitar now with his Dad and know quite a few of your songs too...

I would like to wish for you a complete recovery from this Prostate Cancer. My father-in-law had it. It was quite too late for him to recover. My husband Roy now is checked yearly and we appreciate that you have openly spoken out about this and encourage men to get checked. I also pray for your wife as it takes a toll on the better half walking through this with you as you probably well know. God Bless you both. May you find rest and comfort knowing that other all around are thinking and
praying for you Dan. May God bless you with a FULL LIFE.  Your Fan and Friend in Chillicothe, Ohio. ~ Patty Lowery

Hey Dan, I was so sorry to hear of your illness.  Finally made the time to visit your website.  I love the pictures!!  Last saw you at the Bushnell in Hartford,CT.  I believe it was shortly after you cut your hand sailing. Hope you are finding some peace out on the water.  It is a great place to calm your mind. I look forward to hearing that things are going well for you. Warmest regards ~ Jeanie Cullen

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, now and always.  Your music has been a part of my life forever, it seems.  I last saw you at the Bass Hall in Ft. Worth, Texas, and it remains the best concert I've seen in many years.  I know you are going through some tough times right now, but I look forward to seeing you back on the stage or in the recording studio some day soon. Thanks for everything.  Peace and love ~ Martha

Dan & Jean Fogelberg, You are both in my prayers.  I have been a fan of Dan's for many years and had no idea that he was ill.  I too, as others have said,  lost track of him as I was concentrating on my own life.  Dan's music has been an uplifting experience in my life and I will be forever grateful for his genius.  Thanks for all of your  beautiful music, Dan! ~ B. Johnson

Hi Dan, Thinking of you and wishing you well. .I saw you in Santa Fe a few years ago----this time of year.  It was wonderful. ~ Tina Michelitch, Rio Rancho,  NM

Dear Dan, I could not agree with you more in regard to early check-ups and detection of not only prostate but other types of cancers. My birth father died three months prior to my birth in 1954 from lung cancer and my step father died four years ago from lung cancer. I think we need to take our lead from women who are much more likely to see their healers on a regular basis, often times cancers and other diseases are more treatable. You have always been a mentor to me through your writings and music.  I am beginning a fast today for you and your wife. May the spirits and the collective love that surrounds you, provide you and your family with peace ~ Gregg Dethlefs

Hi Dan: I am in the same "club" as you. Diagnosed 8-15-2000 and went for seed and radiation therapy at SIUH. All went well for three years and then PSA zoomed. Now 15. Not taking the hormone route. Don't know what awaits me. Didn't know about you until I visited your page to check one of your albums. I am a great fan. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. We all have to catch the bus, eventually, but like you I've seen and done a lot and hopefully it will be late! God bless ~Don D.

Thanks for the music, Dan, and for everything it has  inspired in our lives.  And please know that if you should ever feel the  urge, once again, to share your wonderful talent with us all, we will be here  waiting to accept it.  Wishing you and Jean good health and everlasting  love. ~ The Shannon Family,  Delaware

I have been a fan since the very early 80's and in many senses; Dan's music has mirrored my own life.  I have always loved his music because the lyrics make sense, are attributable to real-life events and have brought joy to so many.  Many of his songs were timely in that his happy, uplifting songs brought me to a better place and his sadder, more introspective music came into my life at a point where I could sympathize with the lyrics and feel of the actual music.  Even today, as a 50 year old woman with a family, children and a business, his music touches the "depths of my soul" each time I hear it. 

It is very sad to hear that Dan has been ill.  Having been wrapped up in my own life and bringing up children, I hadn't kept track much over the last 3+ years.  I will keep him in my prayers and hope to hear that he is again healthy.  I would so love to see him perform again... one of my own dreams. Many thanks to Dan for so many years of wonderful music. ~ Janet-Lee Santeusanio, Hampton Falls, New Hampshire

 Dan, Forgive me for using your first name when you don't know me but I feel I know you through your music.  I am a recently retired medic from the U.S. Air Force. Over the 30 years I served, your music often sustained me when I was far from home and family.  The first time I heard your music I was stationed in what was then West Germany and a friend put on the Nether Lands album and I was hooked for life.  Being a medic I realize what you are going through and how rough it can be. I pray that you will get better and even if you don't return to the stage I thank you for all the music you have given us.  I used parts of your lyrics from "Leader of the Band" at my father's funeral to honor him.  You are one of only a few true troubadours left, hardly anyone writes and performs their own music anymore and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. ~Bob Buechele,  MSgt, USAF Retired

Dan, As a Colorado "girl" of 42, your music has been my lullaby.  I learned to take from the Reach all that she has to teach, to the depths of my soul, because of your artistry.  Thank you for your gift to humanity, and I pray that you may continue to bless us with your gorgeous poetic genius. Peace, love, health and light ~ Wendy

Thank you for so much beautiful music. I continue to pray for you. ~ An old fan.

 May the Good Lord Bless and Keep you and yours through this time.All our Prayers from Arkansas.

There have never been better lyrics written.  You write from your heart and must keep Spirit in your heart always.  I live in Hartsel, Colorado, and can therefore understand how alive Spirit is here in these mountains.  My heart sings to Spirit with love, hope, and wellness for you. Peace ~ Suzi

Dan - I just wanted to drop you a note of thanks and prayer. I first saw you at the Santa Barbara Bowl in 1978. My buddies and I were 17 year old surf rats and drove the La bomba board on the roof, beer in the cooler.  The waves were 1 foot, our seats were at the top of the bowl. 28 years later only one of my buddies still surfs, one of our wives has cancer,all of our kids are doing well, and the story of that weekend ( it seems to get better with time) still brings a smile and laugh to my buddies and our families. Danny, you have been and will continue to be a part of that family as long as we live , and if we can talk any sense to our kids as long as they live too!  We will continue to lift you up in prayer to the ultimate healer, the creator of it all . Lord bless you and God's plan for your life. ~ Curt and family, Lahabra Ca.

Hi Dan, I am from Scotland and have been a fan of yours since"Souvenirs". I do hope all is well with you and your family. You are a truly unique  musician and I have always regretted never having seen you play live.I live in hope that you will someday visit my beautiful country and fulfill my dream. God be with you ~ George Martin

Hi Dan. I just finished playing "The Reach" on my D-41DF. It's always been a favorite of mine. I also have a D-28 that you personally autographed for me in 1991 backstage at the Valley Forge music fair in PA. Those are fond memories for me. I remember when you signed it you said "I wouldn't want that on my guitar". Well every time I look at it I'm reminded of how excited I was that night to have your signature on my guitar and I'm very glad that I did it. I still love to play your songs and look forward to the day that I'll be able to see you in concert. Good luck with your recovery and have a nice summer this year. God bless you. ~ Mike Mallett , Barnegat, NJ

Hi Dan, I've been thinking of you alot lately and hope you are getting the better.  Your music has touched me deeply as I have been listening to you since the 70's.  My 13 year old son even listens to Home Free every night as he falls asleep (I do also).  I hope there is a light in the depths of your darkness...Let it Shine! Peace ~ Dan

My Dear Fine Fellow, A few words of Buddhist wisdom:
Confess your hidden faults. Approach what you find repulsive.
Help those you think you cannot help. Anything you are attached to, let it go.
Go to places that scare you ~  Machik Lebron

I believe that you have already been to places that scare you since the onset of your illness.  We all need to confront our fears because they silently, stealthily, and persistently rob us of our true, unfiltered experiences and feelings.  Your journey appears to have dumped fear into your lap saying now what?  The dignity, bravery, faith, love, and compassion with which you will overcome your illness is a inspiration to us all.  You are our dear example that it's ok to "go to the places that scare us". Blessings and peace ~ Leslie Manna

Dan, I am a 47 year old full time entertainer in Florida. I  was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in July of 2004 through a routine PSA during  my annual check-up. My Gleason score was 6.7. I had the option of a  radical  prostatectomy or  cryo-surgery. I choose the later. My  surgery was done in November of 2004 and as of June 2006 my PSA has been a  steady 0.1ng/mL.  I am back to work performing 6  days a week. I wish you all the best and may God be with you down your road as he  has been with me down my road. I have always been a fan of yours and look  forward to nothing but good results
for you.... Best Regards ~ Michael Caso, Daytona Beach Florida

 Dan Fogelberg's music is exceptional.  My 20 year old college son traveled home yesterday to celebrate Father's Day.  He's a thoughtful young man on a limited budget.  In a college town, he found a used vinyl store and purchased "Twin Sons" and "Phoenix".  They're a little camp-fired but still have the warmth that only vinyl can produce.  Incidentally, I posses an extensive Fogelberg collection on both vinyl and CD, but not "Twin Sons" and "Phoenix" on LP.  It was to say the least, an outstanding and heartfelt Father's Day. The reason I'm sending this mail is in hopes that Dan can somehow see this and understand just how much his music means to the fans.  Also, that his career has influenced more than one generation.  Continued prayers for Dan and his family ~ George Harban

Dearest Dan, Just want to say that your influence on my life and my thoughts are immeasurable.  I've never been much of a groupie, but everyone who knows me well, knows that  Dan Fogelberg's music (not mention your voice) has been an important aspect of my own musical life for 28 years and counting! That is why I'm writing - to let you know you are in my thoughts, as well as the thoughts of thousands of devoted friends and fans.  We know you will get through this rough patch! 
   
When a friend lent me "Nether Lands" in 1978, I fell in love with your lyrical style, (so smart!) not to mention those gorgeous melodies (so inspiring!) springing from your heart, your throat and your fingertips. When you warbled, "Anthems to glory and anthems to love and hymns filled with earthly delight, like the songs that the darkness composes to worship the light..." you inspired me to try my hand at poetry!  While my writings paled in comparison, nevertheless, they probably would never have seen the light of day, so "Thank you, Dan"! As an enthused audience member, your concerts at Radio City Music Hall (late 80s), or your acoustic performances at Westbury Music Fair (the 90s) stay in my mind still. Do you remember playing at St. John's University in New York back in 1979 or 80? Your concert there (my alma mater) was a high point of the whole school year . Even now, your music is timeless, classic, truly the epitome of beautiful.
   
Recently in San Francisco for a convention, I made sure that your "Portrait" CD was with me. Rediscovering the "The Innocent Age" title track while driving down Route 1 was a major highlight of that trip. Of course, I owned the double album way back when, but it's been a few years since I had a turntable, so I hadn't heard it for a while! (They'll have to pry "The Innocent Age" from these hands when I go, lol!! )  Well, it was as if I was listening to this wonderful, wise song for the first time... it has had a profound effect on me now and I can truly say it's one of my favorites.  Oh, but there have been many....
   
My son Daniel (hmmm, wonder where I got the inspiration to name him that?), who is now 21, also admires your music and talent.  As a budding musician himself, he knows how much your music has meant to me... you have made a difference in my life.  We are now, with your other legions of fans, praying for your speedy recovery and keep you and your wife Jean in our highest thoughts at this time of healing.  Sincerest Best Wishes to you, Dan - and thank you SO much for many years of inspiration and for the timelessness of your talent.  Be WELL!!! Love and Best Regards ~ Elaine B. (New York)

Hey Dan, Here comes the first day of summer 2006. I hope that you will enjoy every day of the season. Wishing you the best of health! ~ Ken H, YNP

Dear Dan: I have been worrying and wondering about your health for awhile now and I just had to check up on you. I have been a fan from 1972 forward.  From "Hickory Grove", "Be On Your Way" and "Wysteria", forward, I was hooked on your music and your beautiful voice.  The night that I met my wife of 24 years, Robin, we heard "Same Old Lang Syne" on the radio and it has been our song ever since. We were fortunate enough to take our son Ben to see you at Lake Tahoe around the year 2000 when you appeared solo.  Your version of an old George Harrison song knocked me out, and I was so happy that I could share my love of your music with my son.  He is 21 now, and I hope he hangs onto the Dan Fogelberg records! My love, prayers and best wishes are with you.  I've got the Greatest Hits in the car CD player now, so I'll pop it on at lunch time and think of you.  Heal and be well. ~ Bob Auer

Dan, I just wanted to let you know that you are in my prayers.  Your music touches my soul, and I thank God for the gift of you.  May God continue to watch over you, and may you be strengthened by His love, and the love of your fans.  Be well, and know that you are very loved... ~ Dina Schweizer, Canton, OH.

Dear Dan, Thank you for all the music. You are part of the plan. Your music will last... longer than the blue in the sky. Peace and Love ~ Boysie & Kim Solem

You've spread so much light, so many positives on your journey.Throwin' some back at you. Hope it catches you. ~ cb

Dan, I was introduced to your music in 1975 by my youth minister.  Home Free, Souvenirs, and Captured Angel are
3 of my four most loved albums.  In 1981, my husband gave me The Innocent Age on the day he proposed, thus number 4.   I've only had the pleasure of seeing you live in concert three times, once in the 70's, twice in the 90's.  Your melodies are heavenly; your lyrics thought provoking; your passions meaningful and important.  Your music has touched us in deep and meaningful ways.  Thank you for sharing your gift with those who would take the time to listen and reflect. Our prayers are with you.

 Dan, I am 46, and my first contact to your music was Twin Sons From Different Mothers.  My wife and I saw you for the first time live in 2003 in Buffalo.  We know you will win this battle, and I wanted you to know that your music touched my soul, weeping while listening to your lyrics.  I was not very popular, and I felt great when I listened to your songs. Thank you for that. ~ Don Schwass-Buffalo New York

Dear Dan, Since 1977, when my first marriage broke up, people all over told me about you, your style of guitar (I've been playing now 39 years), and music, and I just HAD to find out WHO Dan Fogelberg was! Ever since that day I started buying your albums and cassettes, I have added every single album over the years in on medium or another, including, now, your Portrait anthology, one of only three I own (Gordon Lightfoot and The Moody Blues). Now I have my very favorite tunes on an MP3 CD and I listen to them almost weekly!  Not only that, but I have placed many of your song sheet music into a special album that I play when I need inspiration or to feel your presence in my life.  Thank-you Dan, for your influence upon my life, your input through your songs that led me through a difficult time, and the continuation you have through being the "Living Legacy"  of your father in a new time. Not sure of your spiritual beliefs, let me just say that I will pray for you and your family through this difficult time and that you "Don't Lose Heart". "...a love like this, is so hard to find..." ~ Rick Shrack

When I listen to your music there is a place within me that I unlock and then I smile. Your music is the key for me and for that I am eternally grateful. The last concert I saw with you was on my 50th birthday at Westbury Music Fair four years ago. I still remember every moment. Many thanks. Many prayers..much love ~ John

Dear Dan, The other night I had a get together with my old friends.  We were listening to our old music and someone said, "Hey, what ever happened to Dan Fogelberg?"  No one knew.  That night I looked you up on the internet and saw you were indeed still around but had been diagnosed with the big C.  A few weeks later I purchased the "Tribute to Nicolette Larsen" CD and there you were again.  And I've been thinking about you ever since.  So I am writing you to get it off my chest.

I know you are going through some rough times and I'm sorry for that.  I am a 2 time breast cancer survivor, myself.  Right now, I so much want to meet you and talk with you about the profound things I have learned throughout this process...partly to give you comfort and insight, but also to find out if the cancer has profoundly changed the way you view the world, as well.

An abbreviated version of my situation is as follows.  I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999.  I went through treatment and then, at 42 years of age, went to law school.  It was something I'd always wanted to do but I thought I was too old.  My daughter was 6 at the time and for 3 years we lived on student loans.  I graduated in 2003  and while I was studying for the bar exam, was diagnosed with a local recurrence.  I had to wait 6 months to take the bar due to being in treatment, but did take it the following February.  I am now practicing law for all "the little guys" out there, who seem to get stepped on more and more  lately. I've lobbied for the National Patient Advocate Foundation and the Komen Foundation, both in the states and D.C.  Last year in D.C., the head of NIH spoke to us and advised us that NIH has a goal of making cancer a manageable disease within the next ten years.  In other words, something more like diabetes or high blood pressure.  So HANG ON, friend, and keep the faith.
Dan, I still know all the words to your "Captured Angel" album by heart.  And I know that anyone who could have written that music and those words is a gift to the lives of those who've listened.  Best regards ~ Penny Reeves

Hi Dan, I am not sure this is totally appropriate to share on this lovely tribute page(s).  However, it is Father's Day, and my Papa has passed on, along with your dear Leader of the Band.  Many fans have written to you regarding how this song has meant so much to them and their fathers.  I would like to share another perspective, if I may.

Following my son's graduation from U of IL in 2001, he was looking around at other universities for his masters program.  He was looking toward Colorado, as we have vacationed there and he fell in love with alpine skiing in the Rockies (as opposed to Midwest skiing!)  Our son and his then-girlfriend settled on CU-Boulder for their engineering programs.

The time came to pack up and move him...Illinois to Colorado...my only living child, whom I had given so much of my life raising him, serving as the taxi driver in those early years of Cub Scouting, piano lessons, then on to guitar, countless school band concerts (trombone), high school plays...you get the idea.  How was I going to be an encouragement without breaking down?  YOUR amazing lyrics soothed me so much and still do...  "I thank you for the freedom when it came my time to go"

Even though his dad and I cried from Boulder to the Colorado state line, we knew the move was the right thing for our son to do.  We had given him good Midwestern roots and now it was time for him to fly.  I honestly don't know if I could have (finally) felt so peaceful and calm if I had not had your words to fall back on.   From the bottom of this mother's heart...Thank You Dan Fogelberg and my gratitude for both your parents for allowing you to seek your dream.  And, thank you to Jean, for being there through-out your prostate cancer diagnosis, treatments, and being so strong. ~ Dianne, Peoria County, Illinois

My life for some years now has been focused away from music, and you; and yet something lately has been calling me back to the center. I noticed in the short biography that there is hardly a mention of your gift for poetic language. I pray that you BEAT this cancer, so that you may fill many more pages with your gift of poetry. Thanks for giving so much, of YOU!

Hi my dear friend!  My prayers are continually with you and your family and I can't express the joy you have brought to my life.  Also being from Champaign, IL we share similar views.  I miss you, dear one, and hope to see you again some day. ~ Doyne Marie Liverett

Dan: This is my second opportunity to touch on my yesterday and your tomorrow.  We have one thing in common - that being your current condition.  I love you like a brother.  Please don't back down from this challenge.  You will prevail and join the ranks of survivors that would not give this disease a tomorrow. ~ Roger Jones, California

Visit the DF Wishes Archives



© TheLivingLegacy.net  All rights reserved.