But the most memorable part of the trip was spending time with the children. We met at a museum where all the children diagnosed with cancer gathered. Spending the day with them brought a feeling to me that was indescribable. Watching each child smile, laugh, and seem so happy despite their condition gives life a new meaning. The true test of this trip was realizing that these children brought more joy to you then to them. We were there for them, but they were there for us too. Who am I to bring so much happiness to someone? The answer is that it doesn't matter who you are, what you do, or what you've done the only thing they enjoy is living life in the moment with whoever it is. If you sit down for 5 minutes and just listen, make them feel cool, or give them a high five you have won their heart.

I made pals with one in particular, his name was Thomas. He reminded me of my nephew, so energetic and full of life you would of never thought he had cancer. Thomas didn't care he just wanted to have fun. I met him and asked him if he knew who I was and he had no clue. Even when I told him, still no clue. Right then, I knew I would make sure he would remember me. When I was spending time with him, time stood still. My life froze and all worries and problems seemed to disappear. We laughed and joked like we were buddies. He collected rocks so I bought him the biggest one they sold at the museum. Thru his strong accent he said, "this is my favorite one ever." (by the way he is the fastest kid alive)...From there we went to lunch. At the end of lunch he came up to me and said he wanted to give me a gift. He gave me a CD of him singing U2, and I was the only who could have it. He recorded it right before he went into a very bad time in his cancer treatment, according to his mother, they thought it was gonna be the last time they would hear his voice. Right before we left I went in my wallet and pulled out a lucky penny of mine I had had for years, pulled him aside and gave it to him. I told him it would bring him luck forever. His face lit up and then he gave me a hug. I knew right then he would remember me.
The point of story goes back to when I said it doesn't matter who you are, what you do, or what you've done the only thing they enjoy is living life in the moment with whoever it is. Who am I? I'm Chris Richardson from American idol......Who am I to Thomas, his new best friend.





.......Amanda Jones you inspired me to continue and never stop, spread your wings!

-Chris Richardson (now a Hollywood Knight)