Lowen and Navarro

For many years, Lowen and Navarro performed the soundtrack of my life. Their intelligent, sensitive lyrics are very emotional without being mushy - a difficult balance to strike. For at least a decade, I would count them as my favorite band. On March 18, 2006, I had the opportunity to see them perform live at the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA with someone who is very special to me.

It has been many years since I saw them perform live. In dealing with my own life issues in the intervening time, I have not been following their careers or events in the lives of the band members. I was shocked and broken hearted when I learned that Eric Lowen has ALS. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a debilitating neurological disorder, in which the patient suffers a steady decrease in muscle control. The life expectancy of someone diagnosed with ALS is between 3 to 5 years.

At the time of the performance, Eric was no longer able to walk and performed from a motorized wheel chair. He needed assistance changing guitars. But his voice was strong, and he maintained his hallmark sense of humor. He had the demeanor of a man that understood his fate, but was determined to make the most of the time and talents that he had left. It was truly inspirational.

Someone that I was close to succumbed to ALS. It was a painful experience for me, and I have often blamed it for many of the unpleasant events that subsequently unfolded in my life. I have seen first hand how this disease can destroy lives -- not only the life of the patient, but of anyone this disease comes close to.

I know that not too many people visit this blog, but I would highly encourage anyone that reads this to go to Lowen and Navarro's Home Page, listen to some samples of their music and buy some of their CDs. Also, visit the ALS Association Page to learn more about ALS and find ways that you may be able to help out.

Thanks.