Doctors gave David Bailey six months to live after diagnosing him with a malignant brain tumor.
After that July 4, 1996 diagnosis, Bailey left his corporate career to return to singing and performing as he had done earlier in his life, according to his Web site. His concerts serve to bring hope to listeners and also frequently benefit cancer related causes.
His upcoming concert at the University will benefit brain tumor research at the University of Virginia Health System Cancer Center.
The son of Presbyterian missionaries, Bailey grew up in Beirut, Lebanon, and completed school in Germany, spending time traveling throughout Europe to perform.
Despite living and traveling throughout the world, he said he decided to call Charlottesville home one and a half years ago.
"We could have moved anywhere in the country, but every time I played in Charlottesville I fell more in love with it," he said, adding that performing in his home town is a rewarding opportunity.
Although the Cancer Center provides extensive care for those living with cancer, its availability and resources did not prompt Bailey's decision to live in the area. He did, however, say it is comforting to know it is there.
He also said he feels privileged to be able to contribute to the Cancer Center's purpose with his motivational songs and life story.
"Strong melodies and intricate finger picking set a perfect backdrop for his warm baritone as he delivers keen and witty insights about his favorite topics: time, faith, hope, love and dreams," his Web site states.
His inspirational story has been featured on several national news programs and has led to performances throughout the country.
This performance, presented by Jennifer Bernhards, Delta Gamma and FORCE, will be in the Prism Coffeehouse at 8 p.m. and will benefit brain tumor research at the University. Delta Gamma's Victoria George will accompany Bailey for two songs, and Scuffletown also will perform.
"It's going to be a very uplifting night," Bailey said.
Although the concert is free, donations are requested from attendees. Stressing the importance of brain tumor research, Susan Goins-Eplee, support services coordinator for the Cancer Center, said minimum donations of $10 are requested to supplement donations already received. She also suggested arriving early to get seats.
According to the Cancer Center Web site, $10,660 already has been raised from this event. Goins-Eplee said this money was raised primarily by a letter writing campaign conducted by Bernhards and her sisters in Delta Gamma.
After four chemotherapy treatments and several surgeries, Bailey said he lives for today and encourages others to do the same.
"I am here today and I really just focus on that," he said. "The future isn't guaranteed for anyone, but hope is worth it."
For more information: www.davidmbailey.com
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