Marine Veteran Finds New Purpose Through Music After Facing Death

A 72-year-old U.S Marine veteran got to record his first album this week, after being taken off hospice care.

Bobby Cervantes said performing gives him purpose and a new mission in life. Cervantes plays the harmonica and guitar and writes music and sings. He also just recorded his first album at the Church Studio in Tulsa.

Over his 50 years as a musician, Cervantes has performed for troops overseas and at many restaurants.

"Now, I'm playing for the Lord,” said Cervantes. “Playing a lot of religious songs and oldie songs I've learned through the years."

Cervantes said he turned his life around after he almost died.

In 2021, doctors told Cervantes he had weeks to live and went on hospice care.

"I was drinking too much and taking Hydrocodone pills,” said Cervantes. “They were prescribed, but you know, mixing them. I thought I could live forever, and my dad lived to be 100 and it caught up with me at 72."

Cervantes now has quite the fan base at hospitals and senior centers. where he goes on his "Bobby Cervantes Miracle Tour” and oftentimes dresses as Elvis Presley.

"I go in as Elvis because that's their generation," explained Cervantes.

Aaron Hoffman was Cervantes' hospice chaplain, baptized him after his recovery and is one of his biggest cheerleaders.

"Watching Bobby's story, it's powerful. Most of the time in hospice, this isn't the norm, where God raises somebody up off hospice and they're going around, everywhere, sharing faith, hope and love,” said Hoffman.

Cervantes said he feels like a new person and wants to inspire others.

"I don't drink anymore, and I'm off on my medical drugs,” said Cervantes. “I have a clear head."

Cervantes said he has found his purpose and plans to perform until the good Lord calls him home.

You can follow Cervantes’ journey here