Today is a truly sad day. Paul Newman died yesterday at the age of 83. His passing has deeply affected me. Although I never had the great fortune to meet him, many of my friends from camp did. He was and is one of my heroes.
Many years ago, he and his wife, Joanne Woodward, started the 'Hole In The Wall Gang' camp, for kids with cancer and leukemia (and other life threatening diseases). My oncologist, Dr. Edward Baum played an advisory role in making this happen. Dr. Baum is the founder of my former camp 'One Step At A Time,' and aided in helping Paul start what has become one of the better camps for children with the disease in the US and several other countries.
Dr. Baum once shared a story of a trip he took to California. As he and Mr. Newman crossed the street, people were staring. Without missing a beat Newman said, "Hey Ed. I didn't realize you were so famous."
He had such great humility...and raised over $250 million dollars through his 'Newman's Own' line of products. In my mind, he was a true innovator in many respects. After losing his son Scott in 1978 from an accidental drug overdose, he started a foundation for those who suffer from drug addiction.
Paul Newman was a true and pure example of all that is good in this world. He was one of the famous people who took the time to remember where he came from...and gave all of himself to those who were less fortunate. I only wish that others would realize that charity starts at home.
He should be a reminder to all of us...a reminder...a jump start...a kick in the pants...whatever you want to call it...that it only takes one person to make a difference...and he did.
In the early '90s, my friend Liz Fischer had the opportunity to attend his camp in Conneticut. She had an amazing time...one that stayed with her until the day she passed away six months later. I still remember the smile on her face the day she showed me the picture of her and Paul arm-in-arm. You could never possibly imagine how honored she was to meet him. Liz expressed how kind and funny and 'normal' he was. She couldn't believe someone so famous would take the time to get to know an everyday person as herself. She told me it made her feel grateful to have cancer...for without it, she wouldn't have had the chance to meet him.
Thank you for all that you did...for so many children...many of which I have had the great fortune to know. Thank you for setting the bar high...for living honestly... Thank you for reminding me how precious life is...and above all for your charity.
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