'Elvis' spreads joy to Valley hospice patients

PHOENIX - A man who himself has been diagnosed with lung cancer is bringing cheer to Valley hospice patients as he channels the spirit of Elvis.

Donald Trapani, an Elvis impersonator, sang to patients at the Beatitudes Campus of Care Friday where twelve Hospice of the Valley patients live. As many as 30 people were invited to enjoy the show.

Trapani was dressed in the trademark Elvis white satin suit and crooned crowd favorites, including "Suspicious Minds" and "Love Me Tender."

Trapani was diagnosed with lung cancer last August and says performing makes him feel better and he enjoys seeing the faces of those he's performing for.

"These people smile, I smile inside," he said.

He performs at least once a week but tries to get in extra shows when he can.

At Friday's show, the enthusiastic crowd sang along as Trapani worked to keep the King's music alive.

"Their reaction, their love for the man, the music, the feelings we share. That's what gets me going every time I go to sing," he says." It's what I do for others that makes the whole world for them."