Heart tribute band 'Kick It Out' helps fulfill bucket wish desire
Last July, about the time she attended another family friend's funeral, Signe Solem-Stubits was busy attempting to fill one of the modest desires on her friend Annie Wooten's bucket list. Annie was suffering from terminal cancer. One of her bucket wishes was to see the local-based Heart tribute band, "Kick It Out," one more time.
Bob Shryock "I experienced one of the greatest and moving acts of kindness I've seen in my lifetime," Signe says. "It was difficult to share with others at the time because Annie was continuing to try to live every second. She since has died, but I know she'd love to have this story told."b
"Annie was residing in Laurel Springs and was not doing well. Each week became more of a struggle. But when we saw that 'Kick It Out' was performing in Wildwood, we knew we had to see that we got Annie there.
"We took the 90-minute ride to Wildwood, arriving just in time for a terrible downpour. Concert-goers were running with their blankets and lawn chairs to get out of the storm.
"We were forced to sit in the car in great disappointment as band members (including Woodbury High School Class of 1982 members Susan and BIlly Salmon) attempted to save their precious, expensive instruments. Band members were drenched and some of their equipment, including a mandolin, were ruined."
The rain at last relented and the band was packed up and ready to head home when Signe asked Annie if she'd enjoy meeting the band members. Signe knew her friend would get a warm reception.
"We struggled on our way over, as Annie was having great difficulty. We met up with the Salmons. I asked if Annie could have her photo taken with them. Compassion engulfed Annie as every band member willingly asked to be in the photo. This was especially generous considering the band had just spent the day preparing and setting up, being totally drenched and cold, and feeling discouraged for themselves and their fans.
"They still had long rides home ... and water-logged equipment to be concerned about. But the band's kindness did not end there.
"The next thing we knew the band began to play for Annie, starting with "Dream Boat Annie" and continuing to play for the next 20 minutes.
"The love that was felt was intense. The goodness, kindness and selflessness of the entire band was exceptional.
"We did a video of the day. No one'who has seen this, while understanding the circumstances, has been able to not cry. They've been overwhelmed.
"This was a true sacrifice and it made Annie feel so good for the rest of her days, watching the video repeatedly and remembering the beautiful feeling it gave her.
"It has made others feel the hope of humanity on days when the world doesn't feel so hopeful."
Signe delivered a stirring eulogy. Annie would have appreciated that, too.
Bob Shryock may be reached at bshryock@njadvancemedia.com. Find NJ.com on Facebook.