The news came in on Saturday that Darren Daulton was called home to GOD after a 4 year battle with brain cancer. Darren Daulton was a diamond that shined bright both on and off the baseball field. His passing gives us a reminder to leave a legacy that improves our community. Darren "DUTCH" Daulton was a winner in all he did and even through his battle with cancer, he was an inspiration to those he came in contact with. Darren's passing at age 55 shows us just how short life can be and how important it is to cherish each day. I am asked why I do so much with The American Cancer Society Relay For Life and my answer is so that families and friends do not have to endure to the pain of losing a loved one to cancer. Darren is a diamond whose memory will shine on forever.
On Sunday morning I woke up to the news that Don Baylor had passed after battling multiple myeloma, a form of cancer. Baylor played for many teams including The Boston Red Sox. Baylor was a fierce competitor and battler as illustrated by his crowing the plate that led to him setting the record for most Hit By Pitch. The last 14 years were not easy for Baylor as he valiantly fought cancer while being an inspiration to others. Baylor is another diamond whose memory will shine on forever as he will be remembered as a man who always carried himself with class and dignity. He exemplified the concept of living life to the fullest both on and off the field. His dedication to improving the lives of others will serve as an inspiration for all who believe that being of service and value are the most important aspects of life.
On Monday it was reported that The Rhinestone Cowboy, Glen Campbell, passed after battling Alzheimer's. His legacy is filled with rhinestones and a reminder for all of us to shine our lights bright and to illuminate the world. Glen Campbell's memory will shine forever in the music that he gave us showing us all what happens when we use our talents for good.
Daulton, Baylor, and Campbell will be diamonds and rhinestones that will shine forever as they enter the gates of heaven becoming true angels to watch over and guide their friends and family. Their memories will inspire all of us that had the pleasure to watch them as they entertained all leaving some indelible marks on all of our hearts. When I walk in The Relay For Life, I will remember the battles of Daulton and Baylor and how important it is that I continue to raise funds to help those touched by cancer to use for research, education, advocacy, and services. As I support the Walk To End Alzheimer's I will be reminded of Campbell and the lives he touched and the importance to eliminate this disease in our life time.
It is the time for us to swing our bats and sing our songs to honor Daulton, Baylor, and Campbelll as we make sure that these diamonds and rhinestones shine forever. As you go about your daily activities please tell your friends and loved ones just how important they are as you never know when GOD may call them home. Do what you can to honor them while they are living. Though they have been called out here on earth Daulton, Baylor, and Campbell will forever be entrenched in our hearts for all they did to lift us up through their sports and musical endeavors. May their memories inspire you to shine up your diamonds and rhinestones and make a positive impact on this world. May you shine your light bright and illuminate the world with the same exuberance as Daulton, Baylor, and Campbell.
