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Marie duncan otto

Executive director

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"One of my favorite wishes was James, whose wish was to hear live gospel music on his 73rd birthday. We worked with his wife to make the plans and she invited all of their kids, grandkids, and great grandkids for a simple party in their home. We arranged for a gospel group from my home church in Cary to come play a few songs and we brought a “party in a box” with pizza, tons of snacks, a cake, balloons, and a couple of gifts. James wasn’t feeling well and hadn’t been out of his room in a while. The band simplified their typical setlist so they wouldn’t go too long for James. Once the music started, James sat in his chair in the living room and listened to the band play his requested songs (Long Black Train and Amazing Grace) along with a couple of others as well as “Happy Birthday.” When the group finished, James cheered (with his arms up in the air), “Ten more, ten more!!” For the adults in the room (including me!), there was not a dry eye. It was one of the most touching experiences I have ever been blessed to witness. He passed away three weeks later and the gospel group went back to perform at his memorial."

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