Photo: Screenshot Youtube / Sly Dylan
The homeless person turns his life around after playing the piano
In front of a bar is a piano where everyone is allowed to play. That's what the homeless Donald Gould does. With one piece he enchants millions of people - and it changes his whole life
Almost every day Donald Gould sits down at this piano. In front of a bar in Florida, it invites everyone to play a few notes. He has no home, no money, "the mosquitoes are hard at night". He puts down his cap at the piano in front of the bar and hopes that he can collect a few coins with his game. Until a few days ago, suddenly everything changes.
With this video it starts: Passers-by film Donald as he miraculously plays "Come Sail away" by the band Styx. The video gets so many millions of calls that suddenly the whole world is interested in Donald - and wants to help him. Private donors, supporters and journalists have since been trying to get his life back on track.
For him it was probably only a few ordinary sounds, many others have charmed them. In the interviews following the video, Donald says that he studied music. He plays a variety of instruments, including clarinet and tuba. But he lacks three semesters to complete. He was a soldier.
The bad moment when his life ended: his wife died 8 years ago, which plunged him into severe depression. Shortly thereafter, social workers took his then 3-year-old son with him - until then he never saw him again, he tells in a conversation while fighting with tears. For about 7 years he is homeless, has a drug and alcohol problem.
But his song has changed everything. The magical melody drew so many attention to his fate that a huge fundraiser is in progress. Money is collected so that he can withdraw, finally afford accommodation, finish his music studies. The hair is shortened, the beard is off, he wears shirt. On the donations side it rains job offers.
For him, the most moving step into his new life is for sure: his son is back! The adoptive parents of the now 18-year-old see Donald's video and make contact. In a moving video call, the two speak together for the first time in 15 years! "Son, I love you, and I will always love you. Let's stay in touch, " says Donald.
The son's most urgent wish is certainly joined by millions: "I hope you get your life tidied up so that we can stay in touch." Because nothing would be more beautiful than if this song really will end so harmoniously ... With the Withdrawal Donald starts now.
