Zach Sobiech Dead: Teen Cancer Patient Left Behind a Legacy of Hope, Courage, and Music
Zach Sobiech, a cancer patient who was looking to impact the world with his music, died yesterday at the age of 18.
The teen was first introduced to the world last summer when doctors told him had less than a year to live because of his osteosarcoma, a cancer of the bones. He was diagnosed at 14.
In December he released what would become a viral hit, "Clouds," a song about facing and confronting death.
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His mother encouraged him to write letters of goodbyes to people based on his report from the doctors, but opted to write people songs instead.
"Cancer may have taken Zach too soon, but he leaves a lasting legacy that many of us will never achieve. His message of love and hope delivered through infectious lyrics and simple tunes have imprinted on the minds and hearts of millions around the world," ChildrensCancer.org released in a statement.
The Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma fund was started by his family, who released a statement concerning his death that was picked up by the "Today Show."
"It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of our son Zachary David Sobiech. Our family has been blessed not only by his amazing presence in our lives, but also by the love and support of our family and friends and by so many people in the community. In particular we'd like to thank those people who listened with their hearts and helped Zach bring his message and his music to the world," they stated.
Sobiech's story and courage have helped millions around the world.
"[Zach was an] extraordinary young man who had the profound ability to make everyone feel better about themselves," said Dan Seeman, vice president and market manager for KS95/Hubbard Radio in St. Paul- he's the man responsible for putting the teen in the studio. "He embraced his life and challenged each of us to do the same."
His album, Fix Me Up was released digitally in February and he was flown to New York to sign with Broadcast Music, Inc., which is sending all royalties to Sobiech's fund and ChildrensCancer.org. So far more than $100,000 has been raised, according to TwinCities.com.
"It's just: try and make people happy," the teen told TwinCities about his philosophy in life. "Maybe you have to learn it over time, maybe you have to learn it the hard way, but as long as you learn it, you're going to make the world a better place."
A documentary about Zach Sobiech's life was released on SoulPancake's Youtube channel.
Donate to Zach's fund here.
