Post by bethann328 on May 24, 2008 18:45:37 GMT -8
My name is Bethann.My first encounter with Michael wasn't in person,It was by photo I won it in a contest.In April of 1981,My friend Sue and I entered the March of Dimes Walk America for a chance to win a trip to LA. I didn't win the trip but I did win a 8x10 black and white photo of Michael. I had no idea who Michael was but my Mother did .She watched the Y&R since March of 73. She said that's Danny from the Y&R.I put the photo in my room and little did I know that picture would change my life 3 years later.On October11,1984 I met Michael for the first time. I was so nervous and scared because I had never met any one famous before. I had just had several operation that same year in order to walk .It was hard for me to sit for long .So I got up to walk around since Michael wasn't there yet.I walked over to another room where a tall man with brown hair was sitting.I was talking to my friend about being nervous and I hoped I would be OK seeing Michael when he arrived.This man said "I bet if you smile and just be yourself you will be fine"Minutes later I found out the guy was Tom Weir (Michael's brother)Tom was so nice and kind but always the one to JOKE around with you.He asked me what my name was and I said Beth "You mean Elizabeth?"I said, "No just Bethann" so he took one of Micheal's picture,turned it over,and signed it"To just Bethann.Signed Tom Weir".Minutes later Michael walked over said Hello Beautiful and gave me a hug.(Someone sitting in back of me said something hurtful about having to be in a wheelchair and on crutches gets hugs and kisses.Micheal stopped turned around and said something to them.He then turned to me to say he was very sorry for what they said to me.He them said he would be back later.I had to leave early because my Grandfather was ill. I said goodbye to him.He them asked me to come see him in concert, he would rope off an area for me and he hoped I would make it.I did make it to the concert.Before he left he said he wanted to keep in touch and I gave him my address. A few months later a box came,It was short and to the point. Happy Birthday Bethann I hope you will enjoy.Signed Michael.As the years went on so did the letters and cards .When ever Micheal was in my state Estelle his sister always called.One date Micheal was here was my birthday and what a day it was. Michael sang "Happy Birthday" to me.Michael also broke me of being Shy and asked me to sit with him and chat.The highlight to the day was when danced with me even though I wasn't able to dance that well.He said to hop on to his feet and thats all I remember. There were so many appearances I had with Michael .He always made me feel like everyone else even though I have a disability.Michael never made me feel different in any way.I remember Michael saying,"Don't look down look up and smile..""You have nothing to feel bad about".That was so hard for me to hear.Because my father always made fun of me .My Father's thinking was was it would make me Strong but it broke my heart. There is Michael saying such wonderful things.
Going to New York City to see "Joseph"was the highlight to everything.To be asked to celebrate fan night with Micheal and his family and his friends was so exciting.And then to be there for his birthday was nice to see Michael the JOKER that he is!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In September 2003 I had my hip replaced Micheal did a personal appearance again in PA.I was still under house restriction but got the OK to go.After catching up with Michael he then took be to another room to sit a talk for about 20 mins.He said I looked pale and weak I said I was ok and that I just had surgery .He said when he gets back to LA ,He was going to pray for me to heal.
The following year my mother had surgery and ended up in ICU .I felt lost and so scared he e -mailed and said He would keep us in his prayers I always looked at Michael as a fan that was then.In March 28th 2007 I was hit with cancer.The entire Damian-Weir -Best families have emailed sent cards and most of all prayer and LOVE.I now look At Michael and Janeen as my best friends and part of my family.They continued to keep me positive and strong.They are Truly Blessed.I can't wait 40 days to Albany.
You also Rock as COACHES THANK YOU !!!! I'm so truly blessed to have you both in my corner fighting with me.
Love,
Bethann
Going to New York City to see "Joseph"was the highlight to everything.To be asked to celebrate fan night with Micheal and his family and his friends was so exciting.And then to be there for his birthday was nice to see Michael the JOKER that he is!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In September 2003 I had my hip replaced Micheal did a personal appearance again in PA.I was still under house restriction but got the OK to go.After catching up with Michael he then took be to another room to sit a talk for about 20 mins.He said I looked pale and weak I said I was ok and that I just had surgery .He said when he gets back to LA ,He was going to pray for me to heal.
The following year my mother had surgery and ended up in ICU .I felt lost and so scared he e -mailed and said He would keep us in his prayers I always looked at Michael as a fan that was then.In March 28th 2007 I was hit with cancer.The entire Damian-Weir -Best families have emailed sent cards and most of all prayer and LOVE.I now look At Michael and Janeen as my best friends and part of my family.They continued to keep me positive and strong.They are Truly Blessed.I can't wait 40 days to Albany.
You also Rock as COACHES THANK YOU !!!! I'm so truly blessed to have you both in my corner fighting with me.
Love,
Bethann