"I had heard wonderful things and was still absolutely blown away after experiencing it for the first time. "

"The concert was awesome.  I always leave feeling better than when I arrived.  My friends all want to attend again next year.  I loved the music, the lyrics and your banter!  Each concert is different and more moving than the one before.  Your explanation of your passion for music will stay with me always.  You have certainly touched my life and your music will have a place in my heart forever. "

"I sat in the audience in the first half and can tell you its pretty powerful during some of the songs. My Mom was there last year and sister in law this year, both survivors, and its very moving, in a positive way, for them and the family with them. "

"Thanks to each and every one of you for pouring your heart and soul into this music and this cause.  We all lead busy lives, but to consistently find time and ways to come together proves to me that there is truly a greater power at work here.  This is one of those life experiences where I often fear that I take away from it more than I am able to give.  Thank you all for inspiring me.  Looking forward to next time! "

"Well, thanks for coming DOWN from "wes-caaahnsin" again.  It is the one night where I feel a true sense of community as we laugh and cry together while we shed a little light on the stories and people we hold in our hearts and long to honor.  The ones that connect us all as we unite in support, love, and hope that we have the power to make a difference.  Thank you for uniting us, inspiring us, and leading us on that wonderful emotional journey.  I don't know how you do it, but it's greatly appreciated. "

"I was stunned by the number of people that stood during God's Chosen One this year, and the tears at those we have lost.  I think of all those who have touched our lives that we have loved and lost.  What an honor and tribute to them and a big thanks to you for giving us the opportunity to do so. "

"I was really moved by the amazing hope that I experienced (and often do at these events).  It's a hope that is not naive, but lives within and because of the real pain, suffering and loss of lived experience.  I was really touched by that last night and want to thank you for being a part of it and allowing me to share in it with you. "

"Just wanted to let you know what a wonderful time I had at the concert yesterday.  You are terrific.  I cried A LOT!!! "

"I have many random thoughts about the concert - the one that stands out the most is what it's truly all about.  As I sit here this morning already at work, it dawned on me - PURE INSPIRATIONS...in that church at that moment when all that money and all those people come together for one cause...PURE INSPRIATIONS...did you have any idea, when you titled your first abum...I could no better words to describe what it is all about."

"During the concert Sunday I was able to give myself permission to grieve (for loved ones) and in the end that is what brings healing I believe. Thank you so much for the "passion" you bring to your audience that heals and comforts all at the same time. "

"You know, every year I come back to the concert and every year I am so amazed and humbled at how the students throw their hearts into it and make it something so wonderful. Eight years ago, I was just thrilled people came. It never crossed my mind that this would become the community benchmark that is has. Your music has become synonymous with finding a cure and making a difference. Kate is so far removed by this point but still, every year, they work so hard as if they know her. The community dedication to the cause and your music is spectacular.  I can't help but smile when I stop to think that even 8 years later, Kate is still touching lives. And without you, none of it would be possible. "

"This was my first Concert for Life even though my sister-in-laws have been after my husband and me for years to come.  We both enjoyed the concert very much.  Thank you for all that you do and have done to support the FBLA and the Cancer Association.  I am glad to hear there will be at least one more year for the concert.  We hope to attend. "

"I appreciate how you try to make each concert a little different and my husband and I really felt that you personalized this one so well by the use of the videos. When the concerts were smaller I use to win the raffles; it seems that the WEssels still win but I don't!! Congrats on a job well done. "

"Matt, I wanted you to know how wonderful your concert was last night.  You did a beautiful job !  I think the one thing that you don’t get the pleasure of experiencing is hearing the buzz the next day at school.  The kids are so excited—they had put so much effort into the concert and they have been able to see their efforts come to fruition and are so pleased, and communicate it with humility.  Those who attended are truly touched b y the music and the cause.  There’s a combination of excitement and solemnity. Thanks again for a great evening. "

"I introduced myself after the CFL show and just wanted again to thank you for a wonderful performance, that was uplifting, spiritual and made me laugh.  I am sorry I did not make it all the other years.  It will now be a must from this point on. "

"Once again I need to congratulate you on a wonderful CFL show last nite.  It was filled with so much emotion and joy.  It really made me think once again how proud  I am of all who put the show together and what a fabulous job you do."
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FAN REACTION FROM THE 2008 CONCERT FOR LIFE
april 6, 2008  |  gurnee, IL