Radio City
I was 15 years old in April of 2019.
I had been playing my ukulele in the hospital and writing music as a coping mechanism for my cancer treatment. Initially, I kept it to myself, as I was a very shy and lacking in confidence girl. My attendants were all very kind to me though, and through that, I become comfortable and confident enough to start singing to my nurses. Whether inpatient or outpatient, I would always play music for them. At night time the nurses would gather in and around my room to hear me sing, as it became a form of comfort for us all.
Eventually, my music therapist suggested I audition for the Garden of Dreams talent show. The Garden of Dreams hosts talent shows each year at Radio City Music Hall for kids of all backgrounds to share their talents and experience an unbelievable night on the famous stage. I auditioned in December of 2018, and was accepted into the show. My doctors approved of my traveling to and from the city, (since I was immunocompromised) and I spent the next few months going to and from NYC to practice and gain confidence and knowledge from industry professionals.
The night of April 9th 2019 was fast approaching. I got my first real hair wig from my hairdresser Lillian, (who is still my hairstylist, I love her) and she styled it to the nines for me. I got a beautiful dress, and I felt like a princess ready to take on the stage.
Myself and one of my friends, Logan ( @logan.pianoman ) got interviewed by Fox News to share our stories, and it was really exciting. I felt like a celebrity.
Fast forward the the night of the show. It was my first real performance, I had never really sung in front of an audience before. Everyone was buzzing. I had made so many incredible friends, and met so many talented people still in my life. The event was extra special because every act was introduced by a celebrity. (crazy, I know). Actors, actresses, musicians, sports players, so many kindhearted individuals dedicated to supporting us on our special night. I was introduced by O.A.R members Marc and Chris, they were so cool.
I got walked on stage by two Rockettes, Samantha and Jackie, as they helped me keep my energy and composure going. I sat down on the stool, and ended up giving an impromptu speech about being grateful, and finding beauty and happiness in the darkest places. The audience reacted really well, which gave me the confidence I needed to sing.
I played my ukulele and sang “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. A song I felt fit my cancer journey thus far. It was a life changing event. I was singing, and when I opened my eyes, I saw people standing and waving their light sticks in the air. I heard people signing with me, and cheering me on. It was absolutely incredible. I had never experienced anything like that before. I felt like I was a part of a beautiful moment of love.
The performance ended and I got to stay backstage with all my friends, and sing karaoke while we supported all the acts to go on stage. Truly, my first experience performing being at Radio City was the best thing I could have asked for. The experience of interacting with the audience, and rush I felt confirmed for me that I wanted to be a performer.
This moment was the point for me where I realized that this is what I want my life to be. It was the start of my journey.
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Fast forward to now, and I am a member of the alumni group at Garden of Dreams. I participate every year with my friends, and it is so fun to watch the young ones take their place on the stage. I enjoy being a part of the Garden of Dreams family.