Prayers, love and support go out to my friend, Darlene Cates, who would have been the first guest on my new radio talk show. Darlene is best known for her role as “Mama Grape” in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.

Darlene suffered a fall a few days ago and broke both her femurs, according to her daughter, Sheri. She remains in ICU at the time of this post.

Personally, Darlene means a lot to me. My mother always admired Darlene’s role in her most famous move because the character “Mama Grape” reminded her so much of her own mother.

I contacted Darlene after my mother passed away to tell her how much joy she brought to my mother’s last days—watching her movie over and over again. And, we became friends ever since.

But, there is so much more to Darlene than that one movie – despite it’s success and Darlene’s success in so many other things.

Darlene is a fighter and a champion. Despite some physical setbacks and some personal attacks from a few radio morning DJs – Darlene looks and finds the good and the best in people. A quality I have yet to master and an attribute I deeply admire in her.

Cates has a kind heart and her spirituality and faith in God has brought her through many tough times. I wish her all the best and my thoughts are with her.

You don’t often find good people in this world: Darlene is definitely a treasure.

Get well soon and please find comfort knowing this world is a much better place because of you, your advocacy and your commitment to your faith.

(Updated at 10:38 May 28)