Imagine growing up in absolute dirt poverty in east Tennessee, daughter of a tobacco farmer, going to school wearing rags your mother stitched into a coat, and when you die the British royal family has its military band play your up-the-workers country-pop anthem in tribute.
After fighting a rare cancer for 7 years, my mum died peacefully on Monday night, surrounded by her family. She was an incredible, passionate, fiercely caring woman, and none of the joy I've found in this life would have been possible without her endless encouragement and selflessness, even through her toughest battles. I will be taking a hiatus to be with family until further notice. Please respect our privacy at this time. Thank you.