Falls Ill

Thomas was now busier than ever, at the top of his form. He was cited as “one of the few jazz musicians of his generation to exist in both the worlds of the downtown, experimentalist scene and mainstream jazz.” Then on one trip abroad, he unexpectedly fell ill. When he returned home, he was diagnosed with leukemia. This was stunning news, but even that could not keep him down. He brought that raucous playing spirit, along with his faith, to battle the disease. During his many months undergoing chemotherapy, he inspired his own doctors and nurses. He wanted to be back onstage playing, doing what he loved.

After three months of enduring some of the most punishing days a human being could suffer, he was in remission and returned home. It was Good Friday. We both had so much to be thankful for, and it was one of our happiest times. While a long road still lay ahead, the doctors said, “Live your life. Play music.” In between treatments, Thomas performed again in clubs and at outdoor summer concerts. At home, he read, listened to music, and occasionally tried to compose, surrounded by the cockatiels who cheered him and whose sounds and antics inspired in him fresh ideas.