Mother’s Day is usually reserved for children to show their reverence. This year, however, things are reversed for Michelle Senton of Clarkston, who with some help from local supporters and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, is planning a concert to honor the memory of her late son, Drew.
Drew was immediately fond of music. Much to his mother’s surprise, Drew took an early liking to the voice of Anthony Kearns, one third of the Irish Tenors. Senton said her son first heard the music of Kearns when he was 17-months-old.
‘He was just captivated,? she said.
Sadly, Drew was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, a form of cancer that commonly effects infants, in early 2001. After struggling for two years with the disease, Drew’s outlook became poor. Senton said in 2003 she initially contacted the Make-A-Wish foundation to see if Drew could hear the music of Kearns in person.
Unfortunately, Senton said the process can take some time, and while the family was working to fulfill his wish, Drew passed away at the age of five.
Despite her sadness, Senton said the decision was made to go forward with the concert. In memory and honor of Drew, Senton continued to work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to bring Kearns to Michigan. Now, the stage is set for Kearns concert at Clarkston High School on Mother’s Day, May 14.
‘We thought it was appropriate,? Senton said. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, money raised by the concert will go to help another child, whose family wished not to be named, who has been struggling with nueroblastoma as well.
When he was originally contacted about doing a concert, Kearns said he was surprised that such a young child enjoyed his music.
‘It’s hard to believe he liked my voice,? Kearns said in a phone interview from Dublin, Ireland. Even so, Kearns said he was happy to take part in the concert.
‘It’s nice to be part of something like this. It’s a good thing,? he said.
Kerns has been performing in Europe lately, but will come back to the states shortly before his stop in Clarkston.
Kearns has loved performing music most of his life, but has only done so professionally since 1993. He peforms both solo and as part of the world-renowmed Irish Tenors. Whether performing solo or in group, at a sold-out stadium or a small auditorium, Kearns brings the same spirit and energy to his performances.
‘It’s a fun experience. That’s the important thing,? Kearns said.
The concert begins at 4:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at CHS. Tickets are now on sale, ranging from $25 to $65 with discounts available. Kearns will be available directly following the concert for a meet and greet session for an additional $15. To purchase tickets, contact Pat Schore at 313-320-5207 or schores@aol.com
For more information, visit www.wishmi.org or call 248-379-2849.