YOU'RE THE BEST!!!

Dearest Michael:

I hope your throat has healed so your beautiful music can continue to inspire so many others. As a professional singer (gospel, contemporary and rock) myself for 40 years, I have been in those shoes more times than I can count. I simply could NOT stop singing even around the house, in the car and in the shower when I wasn't on stage. And it was a nightmare for me not to be able to rehearse or perform at times because I felt that it was a gift that God gave me and it needed to be shared and I did my best not to let the throat issues interfere with what I loved to do so much, even more than breathing. So I understand how difficult that must have been for you. I remember seeing you twice when you were in St. Louis in 1992 & 1994 sitting literally at your feet for both shows and what a thrill it was for me to watch a consummate professional at work. I was diagnosed with Lupus in late 1994 and am now no longer able to perform because of the physical demands. Some say I suffer from it, I prefer to say I live with it and have lived with it over 10 years past what the doctor's gave me as a life expectancy. PLEASE continue to pour out your particular brand of magic that always puts a smile on MY face for as long as you possibly can. You can sing your ass off!!!

As for DWTS....you are the ultimate gentlemen and a terrific and shining example of grace in a most unpleasant situation. I applaud you for stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something not many would be willing to do. No need for you to feel humiliated or embarrassed because Bruno chose to be rude, abusive and completely unprofessional. And for him to do so with your mother and daughters present is unforgivable. DWTS is no longer on my viewing schedule until he is removed from the show.

God bless you for sharing your love and songs with the world and bringing more sunshine into all our lives. You have an undeniable gift. And, an enormous heart and so much passion with your charitable contributions and advocacy. Having you in our world is priceless and it is a much better place. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! I hope one day soon I will be able to see you once again perform live, before the Lupus ends my time.

Peace and love to you and your family always. And congratulations on the grandchild you are waiting to arrive.

Bev