With an undying love for music, Zach Sobiech never failed to amaze those around him. His unwavering love for life and music was what endeared him to his fans who were shocked to hear, Monday, that the 'Clouds' singer has succumbed to cancer. He was only 18.
Struck with a terminal, rare form of cancer, Zach finally succumbed to the disease on May 20, Monday, his body too frail and weak to continue any further.
"Zachary passed away this morning. He was surrounded by his sisters, brother, parents and girlfriend. We love him dearly," Zach's mother Laura Sobiech posted on his CaringBridge site.
When Zach appeared in the nation's radar screen in November 2012, his song 'Clouds' went viral on YouTube.
'Clouds' was actually Zach's message to the people he loved, about his terminal cancer, when he was diagnosed in the year 2009.
"That was kind of just like a cry for help honestly," Zach said, from the bedroom of his home in Lakeland. "I needed someone to drop a rope down to me."
Zach, who turned 18 on May 3, had a tremendous amount of courage to fight cancer, and even managed to attend a prom night with his girlfriend. Sadly, last week, through social media posts, it became clear that he had but a few days to live.
"Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Zach Sobiech. Zach and his family inspired all of us as they confronted his diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Zach gave so much of himself to others and we all were touched by his amazing musical talent. We thank Zach for showing the world what kids can do and bringing awareness to a devastating
disease," a statement from the University of Minnesota Amplatz Children's Hospital, said.
"Zach's strength and courage are a real inspiration. The legacy he created through his music will live on, not only in the songs, but in the awareness and support for research into osteosarcoma, a disease he wouldn't let bring him down, "Brenda Weigel, who led Zach's treatment, said.
Truly, Zach's courage and undying spirit will be remembered for years to come.
