Our Future Days: 30 Years, 2 Nights, and a Lifetime of Gratitude

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Unreal…

Back in January, my wife Melissa and I wrote to the band and asked if they might play Future Days in Pittsburgh for us to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. We shared a little about our journey together — the challenges we’ve faced, and how their music has been a constant source of strength, hope, and healing through it all (and provided Brandt with 12 PJ tattoos along the way).

On Sunday, Eddie sat down, played a few notes from Future Days, and spoke about Franco Harris, his son Dr. Harris, Pittsburgh, tough times, and then about his own future days with Jill and his daughters. We couldn’t believe it when he then said, “but then I got a note that there’s someone else in the crowd tonight. Brandt and Melissa and they’re going to one up us with their 30th anniversary. So happy anniversary to ya.  Much love.” And Eddie gave us a little wave. We cried and danced through the entire song — and we’re still crying when we play it again now. 

Thank you, Eddie and Pearl Jam, for playing Future Days. This song encapsulates the love, devotion, pain, grief, trauma, and unrelenting commitment between two people. It tells a story of us and touches our souls. We are so honored to get our request and be mentioned.

This year, we celebrate 30 years together, 10 years of Brandt being cancer-free, and finally no more surgeries scheduled. We’ve gotten through all the muck together, and we’re stronger because of it.

Believe… it’s possible.

And just as unforgettable as the PJ music, were the amazing people we met Friday-Monday. The fantastic fans we stood in line with for 10 hours for merch — Keith from Atlanta, we loved hanging with you. The wonderful couple from Erie, PA who sat beside us, the woman from Jersey in our hotel chasing Inside Job, my big-bearded friend from Tasmania who traveled halfway around the world, and so many others whose kindness, stories, and shared love for this band made these nights even more meaningful. This community is truly something special.

Two fantastic shows, Pittsburgh!!

I believe. I believe ’cause I can see. Our future days. Days of you and me.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you, Pearl Jam. And thank you to this incredible Ten Club family we’re so proud to be a part of.

Brandt & Melissa