On a personal level, I will always be indebted to Hesh for sharing her memories of my father with me. Because I lost him so early in life I have always been like a sponge eager to hear about his exploits from anyone who was there. During the mid 90's we had some wonderful conversations that I will cherish forever. I learned about my father as a human being warts and all. Not about Bobby Darin the legend, or performer or larger than life personality. No, I learned about Walden Robert Cassotto the young man who had come up via the school of hard knocks. About his character, his grit and what he was like before everyone knew his name. Priceless for my biased and spoiled ears to hear! I came to respect her as she was always supportive of artists. I remember her sending me information on ways to contribute to writers and musicians that were in need. It got me to realize how deeply fortunate I was and how many other contemporaries of my father's may not have been so lucky over the years.

Over the past couple of years Hesh and I didn't speak and I deeply regret that now. I was bothered by what was in actuality a minor thing and petulantly distanced myself from her. She spoke truth to me in blunt terms and I wasn't able to deal with it. If only I had heard similar truth in my formative years! Another member of the Darin inner circle confided to me that my recent overture towards her was warmly received. I take comfort in that and I'd like to think that deep down she knew I was grateful for all she had done for my pop during his lifetime and beyond.

With the passing of Harriet Wasser, a very special part of team Darin is no more. It will never be the same. She was right about my pop's talent from the earliest days at Hanson's; he was very lucky to have her in his life.

Rest in peace dear friend and know that the rest of us will try and do our part to keep our guy's legacy alive.

With love and gratitude,

Dodd

November 2006