voices of hope

THE POWER OF LOVE...

2008-04-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Wednesday, April 9th -- a day I'll never forget. I lost another Mother. However, this one wasn't biological -- she was chosen. Actually, we chose each other. Mary Ida Vandross and I first met on a beautiful fall morning in 2004 as we prepared for a JDRF walk in honor of Luther. We were instantly smitten with each other and began a relationship that developed into much more than I think either one of us expected. We worked together in support of Luther and when he left us we supported one another.

We shared national podiums empowering people across the country about diabetes and stroke. She even joined us on the SOH National Prayer Line, leading us in fervent prayer for those in need. We laughed together, cried together and created an extended family. Last Mother's Day she officially pledged her love in a beautiful ceremony accepting my daughter, Valerie, and myself as her god-children along with our brother, Robert Martin.

Although her struggles are over and I know she's right where God wants her to be, I miss her now and know that I'll miss her even more in the days to come. Love doesn't die...ITS POWER JUST LIVES ON AND ON...

"A Journey with Voices of Hope and Healing"

2007-11-19T20:23:00.001-08:00

"God's grace is sufficient." That's the recurring thought that has hung in my head since last evening's spectacular performance at Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church in Harlem where the collaboration of Opera Noire of New York and Stroke of Hope premiered. It wasn't just a 'performance' -- it was an experience! All present left with a bright burning fire that had been passed from torch to torch as the presentation progressed.

The founders, Hazella & Jeff LaVar, took us on a scripted journey of their personal experiences over the last decade with narration voiced by Donna Lyde (NY Network Board Member) and a brilliant cast of singers who created richly expressed images of emotional colors with the beauty of their voices and the passion of their souls. Just when you thought you'd been taken to the highest of heights, another voice would carry you to yet a higher level of spiritual consciousness.

By the end of the show there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Even the performers themselves were caught up in the wave of emotion as they began the final ensemble number. One soloist was so moved that he was unable to finish his line. But the final voice of support rang out in the form of his colleague who finished the line while embracing his overcome brother. What an incredibly appropriate ending to the fantastic journey that only God could lead us through! Nothin' but the Lord...nothin' but the Lord.

This is the beginning of a world-class production that God has created, orchestrated and illuminated. Education through entertainment...what an awesome match! Stay tuned to Upcoming Events. This is something really special that will evolve into a piece you simply CANNOT miss!!! What a beautiful blend of GOOD MUSIC and GOOD HEALTH. "Blest be the tie that binds." -soh nyc

Clarity

2007-11-17T22:06:00.000-08:00

kirkwhalum.com

Somehow or another time froze for a moment as I looked at the label on the bar of soap in my hotel bathroom. (I know, I need to get a job)! The word SOAP was nowhere to be found on the packaging. Instead was written, "Clarifying Bar." My mind raced to wonder, "What is the connection between clarity and cleansing."

I believe that the Lord was saying that the clarity we seek, the clarity we need in order to know what to do and when to do it... is somehow tied to the cleansing work of the Spirit. 1John 1:9 says; "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us of all unrighteousness."

As you meditate on that scripture, let those two words, "cleanse" and "all," sink deep into your spirit. Allow God to first cleanse your conscience (He has already cleansed away the sins themselves) and then to give you the clarity that you need for the next leg of the journey. As he washes away the guilt, he will also point you in the right direction.

Kirk

GATJ3

2007-10-16T19:27:00.000-07:00

Anyone who missed the Gospel According to Jazz Chapter III last Saturday night missed an opportunity of a lifetime! Reid Temple is a 3,000 seat sanctuary that was completely filled...not only with warm bodies but also the mighty warmth of the Holy Spirit. It was a hand-clapping, foot-stomping, tear-jerking, laughter-filled good time. The program was beautifully balanced with something for all the senses. Fortunately, it was a live recording so everyone will be able to own their personal copy of the event. Unfortunately, the ENTIRE evening won't be included. There were many sweet and moving moments that I'm sure will have to be edited out for time's sake. If you own Chapters 1 & 2, you ain't seen (or heard) nothin' yet. If Chapter 3 is your first purchase of the series, you'll no doubt be moved to complete the set. Every brother and sister appearing on all 3 performances has a special gift that they are using to the glory of God. Blessings to all that have given of their talents and a SPECIAL blessing to Earl Cole of Cole Classic Management, who tirelessly works to produce the very finest of musical offerings.

The Anticipation is Building...

2007-09-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

There's a serious buzz being created across the country as our networks gear up for 2008. '07 isn't even over yet and the level of outreach and accomplishment is sobering. (See the Events and PR page.) As our audience and organizational support grows, so does our ability to serve.

Another BIG shout-out to the AMERICAN EXPRESS team for their loyalty to The Vision and, of course, to our incredible spokesperson, Kirk Whalum, for his passionate commitment. Watch out as our New York network grows into a new Harlem home!!! More to come... -soh nyc

Mama's Home!

2007-09-16T21:46:00.000-07:00

Got word this evening that Mrs. Vandross is back in her domicile safe and sound. Didn't get to speak to her...relatives from across the country were checking in...but she's apparently doing much better. Prayer is a mighty thing! Will give more info as it's obained.

-Hazella

PRAYERS FOR MOTHER VANDROSS

2007-09-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

Our prayers and sincerest wishes for a speedy recovery go out to Mrs. Mary Ida Vandross (y'all know who SHE is!) who's rehabbing from an apparent mini-stroke in Philly. While she's still hospitalized, she reports feeling a little stronger every day and thanks all of us for keeping her strength in our thoughts. She's anxious to go home and begin a 3-day a week routine (her off days from dialysis and weekends) which she hopes will keep her physically where she needs to be. Even though she's not a diabetic, she lost 3 children and a grandchild to complications of diabetes and knows the importance of minimizing those risk factors. WE'RE PULLING FOR YOUR SPIRITUAL STRENGTH TO GET OUTTA THERE AND BACK HOME WHERE YOU CAN BEGIN TAKING THE BEST CARE OF YOUR SPIRITUAL TEMPLE! WE LOVE YOU MOM!

First Annual Celebration of Hope

2007-07-05T18:17:00.000-07:00

If you didn’t make it to the 1st Annual Celebration of Hope featuring Kirk Whalum and friends Jeff Golub and Phillippe Saisse, then shame on you. It was a warm and intimate evening of extraordinary music and heartfelt stories all to benefit Stroke of Hope. The idea was to celebrate the life of Luther Vandross on the 2nd anniversary of his passing.
The reception kicked off in style with Sounds of Blackness member Patricia Lacy- Aiken serenading us with beautiful versions of Luther’s “Dance with My Father” and “I Believe” recorded by Sounds of Blackness. Patricia sang both these tunes as if her life depended on it. Also during the reception, SOH Executive Director Hazella Rollins-Lavar and her husband Jeff LaVar each expressed thanks to everyone involved for their support. Hazella has worked extremely to make this organization and the event associated with it a success but she was busy pointing out all the work put in by others. Not surprising coming from a person as kind as Hazella. Jeff LaVar introduced those in the audience to the beautiful little girl who came into the world only days before Hazella’s stroke, their daughter, Valerie. What a beauty and a blessing that little young lady is.
Just prior to the concert beginning, the audience was shown a video detailing the personal story of Stroke of Hope’s Executive Director, Hazella Rollins-LaVar who is a stroke survivor. To hear the story and see this dedicated and determined woman today brings you tears of joy. She has a wonderful family ( husband and sister in law particularly) who has been with her every step of the way to encourage her and help her rebuild and recover. She has definitely come a long way but admits that she not been nor will she ever be the same since she had her stroke and that she still has some difficulties that may not be obvious to those around her, but they are still there. I think she is remarkable.
As the concert began, the Grace Baptist Church choir put us in the praise spirit right away. I was clapping and praising like I was in the first pew of church on Sunday morning. Kirk Whalum and Friends guitarist Jeff Golub on and keyboardist Phillipe Saisse friends put on an amazing show. Playing a supporting role in the awesome band that night was former David Sanborn drummer Gene Lake and on bass was Ron Jenkins. Kirk also brought his brother, singing sensation Kevin Whalum, his son, future bassist extraordinaire Kyle Whalum who shared duties with Ron, and Rufus Thomas’ daughter, the lovely and talented Vaneese Thomas.
To start off their evening the three friends each performed one of their hits. Then they all assisted Kirk in playing some fan favorites such as Kirk’s Grover Washington tribute tune “Groverworked and Underpaid” and the song that was an R &B hit for Mr. Vandross in 1987 and a Smooth Jazz hit for Kirk 20 years later, “Give Me The Reason.” Kirk did the “family thing” with brother Kevin and son Kyle as they performed a gospel version of the Johnny “Guitar” Watson hit “Ta Ta You Baby” which they renamed “Ta Ta You Jesus”. I love the story that Kirk tells about Kevin teaching his daughters to say thank you and how they end up saying “Ta Ta.” The closing song was a beautiful surprise as Kevin and Vaneese Thomas joined together to sing a classic Luther duet “There’s Nothing Better than Love.” Kirk also took a moment and shared Stroke of Hope was there for his family in helping his Dad as a stroke survivor.
As the show came to a close, Hazella came back to the stage and expressed her gratitude to the performers and audience alike for their support of Stroke of Hope. She even had special gifts for the performers as she presented Jeff and Philippe Saisse with “Stars” and Kirk received a Limited Edition painting. Although Mr. Vandross’ mother Mrs. Mary Ida Vandross was expected to be in attendance, she was unable to do so but she sent love and appreciation to all who were there. No doubt that she will be proud with the report of this successful event and her ever talented son who was taken away way too soon is smiling in Heaven.
So you won’t miss next year, right? Right! I have to say that Kirk’s commitment to this cause is just a testament to the selfless and caring person that he is. It would very easy for him to just send a check or lend his name to the cause without ever really getting involved. But he is willing to do whatever he can to support Stroke of Hope. That is what inspired me to become involved. I may not always have money to give but I can lend my time and energy and I am happy to do so. We have to realize that sometimes it is necessary to roll up your sleeves and get involved. Being supportive doesn’t always mean just writing a check although financial assistance is very important and necessary. So thank you to my Kirk and Ruby for reminding me that there are many ways to give back. I hope those of you reading this are inspired to give back in some form or fashion. You never know the difference you could be making in someone else’s life. I know that becoming involved with Stroke of Hope has made a huge difference in mine.
God Bless you always,
Joy 

2007-06-23T22:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Welcome to “Voice Of Hope Blog.” My name is Joy and I am the Moderator for the Yahoo Kirk Whalum Fan Group.

I am sure that many of you out there are fans of world renowned saxophonist Kirk Whalum. Kirk has been a tremendous supporter of Stroke of Hope and the Yahoo Kirk Whalum Fans Group wants to assist Kirk, his beautiful wife Ruby, and others in seeing that stroke victims receive the emotional, spiritual and physical support that is so very critical in the healing process.

Kirk became involved with Stroke of Hope when his father , Rev. Kenneth T. Whalum, Sr. suffered a stroke. The tight knit Whalum family joined together and brought Rev. Whalum to NY to get the treatment and assistance he needed. And he made amazing strides during this time. He has worked incredibly hard to remain the active and vital person that his family and friends know and love. Kirk and his wife Ruby have also moved back to Memphis from Nashville to be closer to Rev. Whalum,, Sr. As a former postal worker and Memphis City Council Member, Rev. Whalum, Sr. is not only a devoted man of God but a highly respected member of his community. He is so respected in his community that there is an effort underway in Memphis to name the Third Street U.S. Post Office in Memphis after Rev. Whalum, Sr. It is certainly wonderful to see such a devoted servant of the Lord being recognized in their community.

Stroke of Hope’s connection to Grammy winning singer Luther Vandross is a very special one as well. When Mr. Vandross suffered his debilitating stroke in April 2003, Stroke of Hope was there through the trying times and the triumphs as Mr. Vandross preserved on to recover. We also took part in the Juvenile Diabetes walk with Vandross, Inc. to bring awareness to an illness can lead to Stroke which is Diabetes. Sadly Mr. Vandross went to be with the Lord on July 1, 2005. However, the bond that Mr. Vandross and his mother, Mrs. Mary Ida Vandross developed with Hazella (Rollins-Lavar Stroke Of Hope’ s Executive Director) is not one that cannot be broken even after his crossing over to the other side.

I can imagine that there is still a familial bond between Mrs. Vandross and Hazella that sustains each of them as they continue to mourn the loss of their son and friend/fellow survivor respectively.

If there is ever a lesson that I believe there is to be learned from this it is that God does not put more on us then we can bear and that He will sustain you through ALL things, just trust Him always. If you happen to be someone who has suffered a Stroke or if you are caring for someone who has, I pray that you remember my previous statement. Also, find a support system in Stroke of Hope, become part of one of the Support Groups they offer or attend one of the seminars. It is SOOO important to stay strong, informed and empowered especially when illness or crisis strikes.

I hope you all have noticed the big Jazz Benefit that is coming up to benefit Stroke of Hope. It’s A Celebration of Hope featuring Kirk Whalum and Friends Jeff Golub and Phillipe Saisse. This is an amazing group of musicians. Phillipe Saisse is a master of the keyboard, Jeff Golub will blow you away with his guitar, and Kirk, well, he has more soul in his little finger than most people have in their entire bodies.

Mark your calendars for July 1, 2007 @ 6pm at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center. Click here to order on-line or Call 212-220-1460 for tickets. If you live in or near NYC or if you think you can be in the area on July 1, 2007. It will be a great way to help those whose lives have been affected by a Stroke and you will have the chance to here AWESOME music.

This benefit is one of what I am sure are numerous ways that Kirk and his musical friends are giving back. It is not surprise that Kirk would become so involved not only because of his Dad but his connection to Mr. Vandross. Kirk worked extensively with Mr. Vandross musically and Mr. Vandross had a tremendous respect for Kirk. I believe Kirk has said that Mr. Vandross told him that he did not like the saxophone but he enjoyed Kirk’s playing because Kirk plays like he sang. Not too shabby to have a compliment like that from one of the world’s greatest singers.

If you are a fan of Kirk and you want to help show support for Stroke of Hope, please go to http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/KirkWhalumFans/ and join our group. We plan to do lots of things together for Stroke awareness and prevention.

Also, don't forget to purchase your ticket to A Celebration of Hope featuring Kirk Whalum and friends on July 1, 2007.
I cannot wait to hear some of your thoughts and personal stories. Please share with us. I am honored to be a part of something so special as I believe God is using Stroke of Hope to do great things. I also have grown to care a great deal about Stroke of Hope’s Executive Director Hazella Rollins-Lavar because not only has she has taken a very personal tragedy and turned it into triumph but she is working VERY hard to help others through their struggles. That is the only way to handle it in my book.

Take care of yourselves and may God Bless you ALWAYS!!
Joy :)