Francis McDonald
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Sysiphus Sysiphus
Fran struggled with dyalisis nearly his whole adult life. The myth of sysiphus bears unfortunate similarities to Fran's struggle.
Francis McDonald passed away in 2003 at the age of 48 from complications of his long bout with kidney disease. He was an inspiration to anyone who had a chance to spend time with him.
As a strong young man in his early twenties playing music and working for metro-north in New York City he mistakenly thought he had a bad flu when in fact he had severe strept throat. This mistake led to the onset of kidney disease which became his nemesis for the remaining years of his life. After 13 years of painful dialysis his dream of a kidney transplant became a reality. The operation was successful and he was finally free of dialysis and the detrimental side effects that came with it.
After recovering he moved to Santa Monica where he enjoyed the rest of his years playing guitar and drums in various bands all throughout southern California. He was an extremely gifted musician with the ability to play any style of music with extreme competence. His brilliant creativity and lack of ego made him a very sought after commodity in the musical community.
A little more than a year before his death Fran began rejecting his transplanted kidney forcing him back to dialysis. A side effect of dialysis caused a loss of blood circulation to his extremities which resulted in the partial amputation of his right foot. His hands were also suffering which prevented him from playing the guitar, his first true love. After a very long hospitalization at Cedars Sinai he returned home in a wheel chair. He was severely emaciated and for the first time showed signs of depression about his condition. It was believed that he passed peacefully in his sleep.
The real story about Francis McDonald is not about what ultimately took him from us but about the amazing life force that he shared with all who knew him while he was alive. He was extremely intelligent, hysterically funny and wise beyond comparison. Clearly his constant health battles allowed him a perspective that few people share. He would always get right to the heart of the matter. Every time he spoke he inspired people to live better lives and take responsibility for their community. He touched so many lives with his music and his inspiring outlook. He will be sorely missed.
Fran is survived by his father Bill McDonald (now deceased) and his two brothers Paul and David as well as dozens of close friends and relatives.Your musical influences
Beatles to Mahavishnu OrchestraWhat equipment do you use?
Strat and old Fender TwinContact
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