+++++Music is a personal and wonderful way to express all of life’s emotions. When I became ill with breast cancer in 1996, the only path to my emotional survival was through music and the composition of songs. These songs represent my deepest emotions as I have reached into my heart to write songs about, love, struggle, family, friendship, today, healing, surviving, change, unconditional devotion…and even butterflies. These songs are a gift to myself, a gift I would like to share with you, the listener. I only ask that you hold the music deep within your heart and find your individual peace and interpretation with each selection.

+++++I first recorded Waves Of Love in 1998, a collection of my favorite ballads, and two of my original compositions. When my 11 year old daughter Ashley heard the final master of this collection, she felt inspired to draw the cover. I told her that she could do anything that felt right for her. After two days, she came back to me with a drawing and some thoughts that will stay with me forever… She said, “Mom, these songs are all about love, so the dock in the water walks out toward the sun endlessly… just like love… because love is endless…” These thoughts so perfectly defined this project for me. These songs are a select collection of my favorite ballads performed with infinite love for the many beautiful angels in my life.

+++++When I recorded Music from the Heart in 2004, Jack and Jim of Studio A in Bristol, Rhode Island brought their studio to my home to record my original compositions live which allowed for a heartfelt performance. I am deeply indebted to them for sharing their time and talent and for making this project so much fun. My second and youngest daughter Tyler drew the cover art for this collection. I dedicate Music from the Heart to breast cancer survivors everywhere who understand the journey towards healing and the lessons of loss. A special dedication to the beautiful women of Breast Friends Support Group of Warwick, Rhode Island, who have embraced me with love, acceptance and inspiration to complete this project. I also dedicate the song, Tomorrow is Today, to Donna Ross as she celebrates her anniversary as a cancer survivor (a long awaited tribute to a much admired friend).

+++++So many earth angels have supported me through my life journey as a cancer survivor… words along cannot express my appreciation. you all know who you are; I will always love you. I would like to thank my family, Rob, Tyler, Adam, Ashley, Chris and Elise for showing me the depths of their love every day. To Mom & Dad and “Mem & Pep”, you are truly my heroes. To all of my angels, thank you for your endless love.

+++++Through your support, proceeds from my original compositions will be donated to Youth Education and Awareness Programs in Health and Wellness and Sense of Self Initiatives.

Photo by Josh Edenbaum Photography

+++++The Gloria Gemma Foundation has been such an important support system for myself and so many other patients, survivors, as well as the families and friends of those dealing with cancer. Enjoy these additional selections from the Foundation below, and consider supporting them.