Children Who Inspire Us

March 22, 2010
 

As many people know, Letters to God, is inspired by Tyler Doughtie, a young boy battling cancer.  It is no surprise there are many children who have impacted others with the way they lived and the way they died.

Tyson Busenbark was diagnosed with cancer when he was just 16 years old.  His courage and strength were described as contagious.  His influence reached his family, his friends and communities beyond his home.

One of Tyson’s last requests was to Jason Deere, Due West Producer and songwriter for artists like SheDaisy, Jessica Simpson and Lady Antebellum.  He asked Jason to write a song for his mother to remember him by.  Jason contacted friend and fellow songwriter Trina Harmon to help him write Tyson’s song.  Both writers wondered how to write a song authentic to Tyson’s struggles.  Trina talked with friend and fellow artist, Josh Snyder, a three time cancer survivor.  (You could read more of Josh’s story on our blog.) 

The collaboration of Jason, Trina, Josh and Tyson gave us the special gift, the song Everything is Beautiful.  We are privileged that this song was a part of the movie and the movie soundtrack, Letters to God.  The soundtrack has two cuts of the song, the first performed by Anne Marie Boskovich, American Idol Season 8 Contestent, and on disc 2, by the country band Due West.  (You can listen to clips of the songs on the Letters to God Facebook page.)Both are absolutely beautiful tributes to Tyson and his loving family, especially his mom.  

Tell us about the children who inspire you.