He was rarely without a pair, knowing what he needed. The cue was reaching for his signature headphones quieting the outside world for some peace in the inside one.   

It was his love of music that connected us, so much so you could say - he was music. In his altruistic style, the story unfolded; instead of being defined by his illness, it was his pure expression that inspired living. Call it a unique ability to create the experience, but throughout his journey and years in treatment, the backdrop always music. 

To stop and listen, paying attention to our true nature is what spoke volumes. It was seen, over and over - in the wonder on the faces of those around him. Whether in the hospital, walking the streets of New York, or at a restaurant, the mere act not only transcended him to another space, escaping some very unimaginable times but showed us that we have the power to...change the story.