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.

Prostate Cancer Foundation



Lights Of Healing


Let it shine...



September 9-15, 2007

Dear Dan, Where to begin?!  First, my heart has been SO heavy since the announcement of your battle with cancer, and you have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since.  I can only imagine the emotions and pain you have been dealing with.  You WILL beat it...of that I am sure.  You were my first album that I bought (10 yrs old) and I continue to be amazed at how your music nourishes my soul!  Whether I'm in a mood for a ballad, rocking out or needing the blues  (or wishing to see you live) I put on one of your CD's and life is good!  There are none that can compare with your talents and the gifts you have given to your thankful, dedicated fans!  We love you!  ~Christie

Dan- We've never met. I wish we had. I think that you and I would have much in common. I haven't walked the roads you are walking these days; but you have been one of my companions on my journey, for the last 30+ years. I've been listening to the Twin Sons album, thankful for Mr. Edison and all that traveled his roads, making recordings available to us. I was realizing that a young flautist I know may be young enough to have never heard you and Tim play. I need to change that.

Remember to keep the music alive within in you, even if you never perform again; and even if it doesn't sound right. Music is a rare gift from our Creator; one that many do not have, myself included. But music, yours, Pavarotti's and a host of others has lighted my way when there was little illumination from any other source. As with my drawing, it comes from somewhere I don't really control. Even when I can't draw the way I want to, there is still a 'magic' there, when I allow it to flow. My hope is that you and your family have years of joy ahead of you; whether or not that proves to be true, I pray that you have moments of joy each day that you remain here with us. Blessings ~ Marty Jones

Dan, just wanted to let you know that I recently re-discovered your Twin Sons CD.   It was one of the albums that somehow got lost in the shuffle and I never  upgraded it to a CD.  I love it-- it brings back such great memories. There weren't many albums I could enjoy along with my parents during the 1970s, but this one was a constant at dinner celebrations.  "Longer" was played at my wedding 20+ years ago. I've never written to a performer before, but when I heard about your struggle with cancer, I felt I must let you know how much your songs meant to me. My thoughts and prayers are with you. ~  Carol

Dan, not sure how you are doing. However, I think of you often and, of course, listen to your music regularly. Prayers and best wishes to you as you continue your fight. ~ James C. Gouin

Dear Dan,Your songs (especially the "Nether Lands" album) have been a sound tapestry in my life since college days; they are a place I often return to for strength, solace, joy and hope even now - nearly 30 years later. Thank you.  As a person with a physical - though not life-threatening - disability, I know the power of love and faith. May God hold you and yours close ~ Nancy in PA

I took a trip up to the mountains of North Carolina this weekend and chose the Portrait boxed set for my traveling tunes.  It was the perfect sound track for the drive, and memories came flooding back as I sang along.  I have been a fan from the beginning, when I bought Souvenirs for my boyfriend's birthday in 1974. I have always been amazed at the way you are able to put your feelings into words. It is a true gift.  Your musical talents are phenomenal, and I want to thank you for sharing them for these many years.  I was overwhelmed when I heard that you had prostate cancer and moved to let you know what you have meant to my life.  I send my prayers and good thoughts your way.  It takes great strength and support to face cancer. I know that you have both on your side.  Bless you ~ Leslie Williams, Winterville, NC

Dan, Your music has made me a better person since I started listening to you in 1974.  I remember the first time I saw you solo at the University of Miami.  Two things stood out; the first was while you were singing "Looking For A Lady "  you made a tongue in cheek comment "not in this town."  That was pretty funny.  The second and most incredible one was when you were singing "There's a place in the world for a gambler".  You got to the final chorus of "Let it shine" and the sky had a thick over cast to say the least.  You asked the crowd to join in singing the chorus and no sooner you said "let's see if we can bring out the moon."  Well, I'll bet you know the rest of the story.  The moon was almost as beautiful as your concert.  You wrote a lot of songs that made me and millions feel better so why don't you simply write yourself a song that will make you stronger and make you want to hit the road again starting in Seattle!  Warmest regards ~ Peter Sullivan,
Seattle, WA

Dan, Thank you so much for your music over the years. Your music has always had a place in my heart and at times, in my soul. May your faith, family, friends, medical personnel and fans provide you comfort and strength during your illness.
Thank you for being part of my life through your music. God is always with us; we just do not always recognize Him but he will give you and your family strength. ~ Randy Brantley

Dan...a close college friend from the late 70's and I have been in contact over the years. I turned him on to your music and he learned a few tunes on his guitar for when he played on campus. It's funny...years later when we email one another now and then the line..."Qui pe dire le faux et le real..." opens our emails to one another. Just last year he beat early prostate cancer. Yesterday I went in for my PSA test because he was on my mind. I introduced you to my wife a couple years back when you played at The Warwick Musical Tent in Warwick RI. She wasn't impressed but what does she
know! I had to share with her a big part of my days in college. My test results are due back in a few days. I wish you the best. Keep on playing!

Hi Dan--I am another of your 40 something avid listeners. I always listen to your albums as summer ends and fall begins.  Nether Lands takes me back to heading off to college. I blasted your albums throughout the freshman dorm and was constantly getting "written up."  I find it amazing that you have affected so many people so profoundly for so many
years. ~ Diane

Dan...Each of us has moments in our lives which we remember  with such clarity that even the slightest reminder sweeps us back to that  precise moment in time.  I remember where I was when Kennedy was  shot....when Challenger
exploded....when Elvis and John Lennon died....and I  remember the exact moment that I heard "Longer" for the first time.  I was  parking my car outside a mall where I was going to buy new clothes for  school.  I remember sitting there....mesmerized.  I was brought to  tears.  It was truly the most beautiful song I had ever heard.  I was  hooked...and I listened to every DF recording I could find.  Over the years  I have collected many of them...including your anthology.  There  are now many other songs that have come to mean as much to me...."Paris Nocturne", "Wysteria", "Old Tennessee", "Seeing You Again", "Since You've  Asked", "Heart Hotels", and "Same Old Lang Syne."  I have been lucky enough to see you in concert as well....The Amphitheater in Portsmouth  Va. The breeze from the water and beautiful music is another fond  memory.
 
I was so saddened a few years ago to hear of your illness.  I  pray for your well being and I wish  you and your family  well.
Thank you for the music and the memories.  God Bless You ~ Donna Craft

Dan & Jean, I just found your site. My wishes for a complete recovery. I have lit a candle in your name. Your music has inspired me for many years - thank you ~ Mary B

Hi Dan, I just recently (today) read about your situation. I don't know your current status since your statement was from 2004, but I hope this finds you in good spirits and at peace. I have been a fan of yours since Home Free. I caught your solo show at a small theater in Houston back around '78 or '79 and then saw you with a band in the Chicago area a few years later. I used to play guitar and sing with other people in the late 70's through late 80's and we always played some of your songs. The music scene changed. Priorities changed. Commercial radio changed. Thank the Universe for XM Radio!! Exposure to quality music for fans and exposure for established artists changed. So I lost touch with a lot of the artists I used to listen to. My tastes and the music I created changed as well. But I still have a place in my heart for the musical pathways you created in there....and for you. So today, I decided to get on the 'Net and see what became of you. It's a bummer, Dan. I hope that you are getting all the care and comfort you can. I hope you are getting all the love back that you inspired in so many people. And I hope that you are able to remain strong and positive and can find some peace through all of this. May you get in touch with the purity of spirit that lies within you. You're still the man. Lots of love ~ Harry Woodum

I am not sure what to write, especially after reading all of the marvelous thoughts coming from people who obviously care about you and your family very much.  You may count my wife, Ellen, and myself in that group. She introduced me to your music when we were dating in 1979-80 and our slow dance song at the Log Cabin at school was "Along the Road".  Of course we have gone to concerts and have all of your music - different albums mean so much to me at different times of the year.  Some of your music will grace our special 25th anniversary renewal of vows we did recently here in Vermont.  I want to echo Maria from WIndham Maine (my hometown) in our prayers for you and hope that you are finding more of the truth about life through this very trying time.God knows all you are going through and has a special plan and purpose for this. We pray you will find healing and increasing love daily. ~ Kevin, Randolph Center, Vermont

I wish you the very best. Your music has been a big part of my life for 30 years.  After reading your home page, I made a Doctor's appointment. Continued success! ~ Brad Larson

Dear Dan, While listening to Souvenirs, I write to send you Best Wishes. I first heard your music in the mid 70's and it brings back memories of a lot of  wild times, a lot of good times. I heard of your illness just as others  had, researching your music online and looking for a possible tour. Traveling across the country to Colorado in 1980 made me realize what a spectacular inspiration the Rockies must have been for you, as your songs were the perfect soundtrack for the visit. I also had the best time with the folks out there, no wonder why it's your home base. Here's wishing the best for you and a return to the magic of your music! Sincerely ~ Dave May

Dan, Thinking of you and your thoughtful spirit. Hope all is well, pray for you often. ~ Kathy

May you continue to grow stronger with each new day!  Your music is uplifting and through my life. May you and your family find peace and good health.  Peace ~ John

Hi Dan,  I hope you are doing well & enjoying the beginning of Fall.  I've posted several messages to you in the past, but this one is more to others who are reading here. TO EVERYONE WHO CARES ABOUT DAN:  THERE IS SOMETHING YOU CAN DO TO BE OF HELP.  The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) website sends out email updates, & 2 recent updates asked for help.  For the first time in 30 years, the federal government is planning budget cuts for cancer research, starting in October.  Established projects may be safe, but new ideas which could lead to a cure for prostate cancer could be cut.  The lack of funds would have to be made up by organizations like PCF, which depend on donations.  From this "Good Wishes for Dan" page, you can follow links to send a pre-typed message to your congressmen, telling them to say "no" to budget cuts for cancer research.  It is easy & costs nothing, but must be done this month.  TAKE ACTION link.. Fill in your name & address, click "send now," & you have done something that could help Dan.  ~Charlene, OK

Dan, You and your music were key to my teenage years. Thanks for everything up to now. I look forward to more in the future. Oh, and you've not only inspired me musically, but I will be having that exam you recommend in the next month. (I'm 49). Best of luck in the battle with your illness. Give it hell. ~ James Province, Culver City, CA

My husband and I are natives of Peoria.  Cliff grew up on the “Bluff”, near Wisconsin, and he went to Woodruff, I went to Richwoods. Cliff remembers you, and more clearly, your brothers (he is your brothers age), I am yours. Cliff went into broadcasting, radio, TV, we’ve lived all over as al result. In more recent years (about 7-8 years ago) Cliff, myself, and our son (who is in broadcasting now), went to a live concert of yours in Tampa/St.Petersburg. You were wonderful, and we all remarked of how proud we were to have such a solid representation of Peoria, Illinois giving proper credit to our hometown. Over the years, being a devoted radio/TV wife, and mother, I have enjoyed listening to Cliff, and Jack play your music. Obviously, they too, have a strong appreciation of your music, and have represented their profession, and played your music quite a lot.  We all send you our most heartfelt prayers, and blessings to you.  Your music, and soul searching lyrics, tell a great deal of the person inside.  You will always shine!  God has smiled on you, and his grace has been extended to you– a long time ago.  “Many are called, but few are chosen”……reminds me, and assures us, that you’ll be just fine.  May God continue to bless you in all ways possible.

Tears are streaming down my face as I sit here listening to "Leader of the Band".  I wish you nothing but good thoughts and healing for your health concern.  I don't know how I would have gotten through college without your music!  Seems like each song is speaking right to me, which shows how wonderful they are considering the millions of copies sold.  I saw you at Indiana University in I think '81 or '82, where you were billed as "Dan Fogelberg and His Acoustical Guitar", and it was outstanding.  I always think of my old college love when I hear "Same Old Lang Syne", and of another old flame for "Missing You", and of course had "Longer" played at my wedding.  Thank you for sharing your gift with so many; your music is truly inspiring.  Peace be with you ~ Tammy in Indiana.

Dear Dan, I am very saddened to hear of your bout with cancer and I hope and pray for your recovery. I have been a fan of yours since I first heard Souvenirs and have followed your music since.  Your songs reflect life, love, and display a genuine sincerity not found in any music written today.  You are truly one of a kind. Thank you for enriching so many lives with your music and allowing us to share a small part of your world.  May God bless you always. Sincerely ~ David Alkire

Needless to say I was shocked to learn of your advanced stage of prostate cancer.  I hope you are faring well.  I'm all over my 55-yr. old husband about his prostate health...he's another one for putting things off.  My heart goes out to you.  My memorable Dan Fogelberg concert was in (maybe) 1981 or so.  You played piano and guitar on the WSU campus, Pullman, WA.  I went by myself, having a small baby boy at home that Charlie, my husband, stayed home with.  I took my husband's Nikkon and sat about 50 feet from you.  I remember bluish light, and I was in heaven.  I quickly sent my film in and waited a long week for it to return.  I'll never forget how I felt when I saw those pictures--they would have been perfect had there not been two yellow streaks running right through your face, horizontally, the entire length of the print--the entire roll of film.  I actually cried, as none were salvageable.  I had so badly wanted to capture just a tiny piece of that magical night. I hope you are still making music that soothes your soul.  I hope for you long life, undying love, and peace within.  You are an earth angel to many uneasy souls.  Thanks for softening life's rough edges for me, way back when.  Hugs ~  Nancy 

Many years have passed since I first laid eyes on you but I still remember that black jeep truck, the blue jean jacket, the scraggly long hair and that worn hat.  Looking at you walking up to the backdoor of the lodge I had no idea you were famous nor did I really care. To me you were just another guy coming to the lodge for a week or two who I would have to clean up after. Needless to say I was not the most hospitable. Your ranch was under construction up the road so you were in and out dealing with that but there was an air about you, an aloneness.  One night you came in and our little group was sitting around with their guitars. You asked if you could play and if we would mind you singing a song. You said you had not yet released it so we would be the first to hear.  You sang "Leader of the Band" to this small group of strangers. There was no accompaniment, nothing but you and that guitar in a room of strangers. I don’t think I ever felt closer to anyone I didn’t know than I did that moment in time. It startled me. When you finished I had to leave to keep everyone from seeing how deeply the song had touched me.  I really regretted not getting to know you for you but I was just a simple worker at a lodge in Colorado.
   
For many years I have listened to your music and songs. Each time I listen I am taken back to that distant time, a time of youth and freedom.  A time when sitting by a blue-green lake under golden Aspens and blue skies filled with billowy white clouds made all time cease.  Thank you for giving so much of yourself for so many years to so many strangers.  Thank you for being a leader of many bands and giving voice to heart songs.  I am praying for your healing as a friend and brother yet known.  Though many years have passed, many more will come.  God has blessed you with wisdom of the heart, a soul touched by his creation -- able to string together thoughts and words that create pictures with sound. You are a blessing and your blessings are still yet to come. ~ Devonna

Dan, I just finished playing on my acoustic your song "There's a Place in the World for a Gambler" when I got the inspiration to look up on Google to see if you were playing anywhere; maybe and hopefully nearby myself in Phoenix.  My search lead me to this site which gave me your update. In this song you wrote, "there's a light in the depths of your darkness". This is so true as life takes you deep in the depths at times and as you now may be reaching out for just that light to pull you up. I am very personally aware of cancer being that my father passed from lung cancer at the age of 52 and two years ago, two very close friends died from cancer as well. Dan, in my darkest hours, I reach up through faith for my light which is music and your music has been with me throughout the years. Being now in my 40's, I have played this particular song of inspiration over and over again all around the USA and even overseas  in Japan while I was in the service. The song has lifted me up many many times. I just wanted to thank you and remind you that "there's a calm at the eye of every storm". Get well soon and keep pickin'. ~ Owen

Dear Dan - a friend asked me if I had heard about your illness.  I had not.  I immediately found your website and am writing to you to let you know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers.  I have a son-in-law who recently underwent a stem-cell transplant to arrest Hodgkin's-lymphoma, and I know, all too well, the pain, and anguish that comes from a devastating illness like cancer.  But, I also know, the joy and hope that can come from a loving and powerful God.  God bless you, Dan, and may we all receive good news from you through your website very soon. ~ Maria~ Windham, ME.

My prayers and thoughts are with you daily and have been ever since I heard of your illness. I hope and pray that complete remission is imminent. I could say the usual -- I've seen you in concert at various times throughout my life and was enthralled each time. I own almost all of your cds. I am particularly fond of "To the Morning" and "Nether Lands".. But your music goes beyond human understanding and mere words on paper or via the internet just can't express it for me. The depth of meaning, the power of the music, the emotion, the ability your music has to bring healing and comfort to the bruised and broken is impossible to describe here in a forum like this. I hope and pray that the healing you have brought to wounded hearts like mine will be yours very soon. -- "A bruised reed He will not break and a dimly burning wick, He will not extinguish" (Isaiah 42:3 NASB).  ~ Megan

Dear Dan and family,  My prayers are with you during what I know is a difficult and stressful time.  Thanks for sharing your craft with us, your fans!  My ultimate favorite is "Dancing Shoes"...ahhhh the memories! Praying that God will grant you healing.  ~ Carla, KY

Dear Dan, I have loved your music since high school (I am now 45).  As a matter  of fact, "Longer" was my senior prom theme song.  I was surfing the web  today on my day off from work, looking for info on different interests and loves  that I
have..and was saddened to hear of your struggle with cancer.  I just  wanted to convey a hug to you and your family..and let you know I said a prayer for your healing and continued strength in fighting this battle.  My  boyfriend who is also named Dan just had a lump detected in his private area and  is about to undergo an ultrasound.  Thanks to your website I will also let  him know about the blood test to detect prostate cancer. God Bless you. ~ Tisha Gutjahr, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Dan - my husband and I fell in love the same time your recording of "Longer" was released and  your music has been in our hearts ever since. I have been through cancer (ovarian) and I can somewhat relate to what you are experiencing.  It's a very personal and at times demeaning struggle but with the help of a higher power and my family I made it through and
you will too.  I can feel lots of great music coming from you because of this experience and I truly can't wait to hear it.  My husband and I send you and Jean all the good thoughts and strength that we have and most importantly our prayers.  Let us know through your web site how you are doing.  Keep your spirits up and know that you are truly loved by all of your fans. ~ Cathy M. Sarrocco

Hi Dan Fogelberg, I just learned tonight after a search for some of your lyrics that you haven't been well, and am not finding any evidence of things turning around for you yet. How are you feeling? Much better, I so hope.

You wouldn't know me but I have been listening to your music since I was in high school (mid 70's) and played 3 of your record albums of that time over and over until I could finally put them on cassette tapes and not beat them up any more under the needle of my old turntable (I still have them). When I was still in the midst of a pretty difficult (aren't they all?) teen-age, your music ranked right up with CSNY and Jackson Browne's as one of my trio of musical sources of comfort and inspiration. I admired you for never holding back, and speaking about yourself through your music just as personally
as anyone dared. And when I picked up the guitar too as a mid-teen and was choosing musical heroes to imitate I learned some of your songs among the first, just because I loved them so much.

And my appreciation for Dan Fogelberg lives on, and on. What a gift you have. You have become too, in your own right, the "legacy" that you most humbly wrote about admiring in your predecessor. What can I say to you to inspire you to keep fighting, if you are still sick? What could ever be as encouraging as your words to everyone listening when you sang
"Love when you can. Cry when you have to. Be who you must, it's a part of the plan?" Knowing you as little as I do I think I may know enough to try, in my own humble way, to encourage you to keep close and continue to find strength in the parts of your life which have guided you thus far.  Your loves: Your woman and family.Your friends.  The sea. The new musical story that you must hear but which hasn't been told yet.... You still have so much to say. Your Friend ~ Mark

Dan: Stopped by your web site today to check in and see when your next tour was going to be. I was floored to learn that you are in a battle with prostate cancer. Your music has touched my life in many ways - I am sitting here listening to "There is a Place in the World for a Gambler" as I write this. Thank you for sharing your music with us over the years. I've had
the privilege to see you in concert here in the Cleveland area several times, and completely enjoyed all of them. I have heard that you were paired up with a local Cleveland guy, Michael Stanley, years ago. Wish I could have seen the two of you together back then. I'll always remember the release of The Innocent Age, as that coincided with my freshman year
at college.

My dad did battle with the same enemy you have right now, and so far, he has been free from any recurrence for over five years. I wish you every bit of strength in your fight, and will ask God for his help in finding a way to cure you as well. In addition, I wish your wife and family the strength to stand by your side to help you win this fight. Thank you again for the wonderful music over all the years. It has helped provide a soundtrack for my life. ~ Scott

Dear Dan, Other than hearing your hits on the radio, I didn't really become familiar with your music, heart, and spirit, until stationed in Australia with the US Navy in 1982.  A friend there allowed me to tape his vinyl of "The Innocent Age".  Since then, "Leader Of The Band" and "Same Old Lang Syne" always touch me quite deeply.  I met my wife in 1983, and we wed in 1985. We moved to the Denver Metro area in 1994, and when she requested "The Wild Places" I had the good sense to honor that request, when "Forefathers" became yet another very moving and important song to me.  We saw you on your "Solo Acoustic Tour" at Red Rocks on July 25, 1997. Unbelievably moving - THANK YOU!  Like some of the others whose messages I've read, I, too, enjoy playing your songs.  I pray for your strength and return to good health, as Jean and you face your fight.  You are a shining light and a beacon of hope in a troubled world. God bless you. With Love and Warmest Wishes ~ Randy Aykroyd, Centennial, CO.

Dear, Dan & Jean - My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. Dan, I have your CD. It's wonderful. I'm a huge fan of yours! My prayer for you is that you continue to keep your beautiful smile.  I will keep praying for you & your family that Our Lord & Savior will continue to give you the strength. Love & Prayers always~ Rachel

I just heard. You and your family will be in my prayers. Thank you for all you've given us...all you've given ME.




© TheLivingLegacy.net.  All rights reserved.