You got a Friend

When the going gets tough and you feel like you want to give up, a friend or friends will always be there to lend a hand.

Help can come in many ways and forms - a pat on the back, a hug of sympathy, a kiss of confidence and a touch that let's you feel that everything is going to be alright.

It was reported a month back that Dick Israel, one of the most sought after villains in Philippine cinema, had a  stroke while doing a TV series.

Dick Israel 

The family had to use their savings to ensure that the head of the family gets the best care however due to expensive treatments and chemotherapy, the savings the family once had were all gone. Dick's wife had to seek assistance from his fellow movie actors and maybe from fans via a radio station.

Friends / Acquaintances Unite!
One of the listeners of that radio program was Richard Merk, actor / singer / restaurateur. From previous reports, Merk's bar is always used a platform to help out fellow actors and musicians. Fund raising and charity functions are being held here to show support to their colleagues.

I have always admired Richard Merk in allowing this to happen and I guess that is also one of the main reasons why his bar is still being packed with people - all days of the week.

Merk's Bar Bistro Webpage 

Having a Good Time
The benefit has turned out to be a reunion for some of the artists while others enjoyed the music played. For the benefit done for Dick Israel, it was a night full of Eagles and Eric Clapton's songs - Dick's all-time favorite.

With this kind of ensemble and help from your friends, would you still think you are all alone in dealing with your problem?

I hope not.

**Read this article from Inquirer.net