Drake’s “It’s All A Blur – Big As The What? Tour” in Nashville ended with a remarkable and unexpected moment for one of his fans.
Following his performance of “God’s Plan” during his Nashville concert on Wednesday, February 7, the popular rapper gave a heartfelt message encouraging everyone to lighten someone else’s day by approaching a stranger and offering them a hug. “Somebody loves you,” Drake reminded the audience. “Where’s the love, Nashville?” he said, per The Tennessean.
Lauren Schwallier, who had been fighting breast cancer since March 2022 and had just finished her last round of chemotherapy, stood in the pit near the stage during the concert.
“I see everybody pointing to this sign and I can’t miss it,” Drake quipped as fans in the crowd surrounding the 33-year-old cancer survivor shone their cell phone lights on her “Just Finished Chemo” sign. “So, bring her to the front real quick. ‘Cause this is an important moment,” Drake said.
The “To All the Dogs” artist requested that the cameras show Schwallier’s sign to the audience, showcasing her on the jumbotron. “Listen, forget Drake, forget anybody else in the building right now. “That’s a true soldier right there,” he expressed.
“I hope my manager doesn’t kill me ’cause I’ve never really done this much, but, listen, I want you to cash this in at the end of the night,” he continued, handing her a receipt.
“We’re gonna give you $100,000.” The audience gasped and applauded in response to Schwallier’s story and Drake’s gesture.
She didn’t think the artist was speaking to her at first when he paused his performance to acknowledge her and her cancer battle.
She told WSMV “I was just honestly completely shocked that it was me out of the entire arena. The fact that I got recognized for all the trials that I’ve been through is just insane.”
Her medical bills will be largely covered by Drake’s benevolence, which frees her up to focus on her passions, like music. Schwallier, who has a two-year-old daughter, is thrilled about the chance to provide even more for her family and intends to put money aside for her child.
In addition, she wants to make a contribution to the Breast Cancer Foundation in light of its initiatives to support military personnel in their ongoing battles with cancer.
Schwallier said in a personal note to Drake, “Your music has honestly gotten me through a lot, and I appreciate you more than words.”
Schwallier has surgery in March and risks the potential of cancer recurring. However, her view remains optimistic as she continues to inspire others around her.
