Bret Michaels Mania

I was devastated when I heard the news that Bret Michaels had a brain hemorrhage. I have been a fan since his glam metal days with Poison. I remember being 16 and listening to the record (yes, the record) "Look What the Cat Dragged In". "Talk Dirty to Me", which is the song that the band is probably best known for, peaked at #9 on the Hot 100 on May 16th 1987. The single "Fallen Angel" from their second album "Open and Up and Say Ah", was my favorite.

Bret's foray into the world of reality tv, VH1's "Rock of Love", re-invented the charasmatic singer. The sexually charged and sometimes ridiculous show was the guilty pleasure I just couldn't resist. The contestants vying for his love, with their obnoxious antics, were enough to make me want to jump ship. It was Bret's oozing sex appeal and down to earth personality that kept me tuning in week after week. I was totally psyched when I saw the commerical for this year's season of "Celebrity Apprentice".

Let's fast forward to the finale of "The Celebrity Apprentice". I had mix feelings of learning that Bret would be in attendance at the finale. I knew that I would be elated to see him alive after surviving a fatal condition that claims the life of 80% of it's victims. The other part of me wishes that he take a much needed break to fully recuperate. I burst into tears when I saw him limp through the door and onto the stage for the final boardroom showdown. Since that evening, he's interviewed with The Today Show, Ellen, Regis & Kelly, and Jay Leno.

Last night I tune into the season finale of American Idol. Half way through the broadcast,"Idol" contestant Casey James is introduced. With his guitar at the ready, he starts into his rendition of "Every Rose Has Its Thorn". This is the only number one hit by the band Poison and it was written by Bret himself. To my astonishment, Bret comes sauntering out on stage to join Casey in a duet. It was magical. I was so excited to see him do what he loves the most. I'll never forget that moment as long as I live. His zest for life is awe inspiring.

Seeing fans "rockin, rollin" smiling faces...is the best medicine I can think of. -Bret Michaels