Happy 2026, Rush fans, Vicki here! I hope your year is off to a good start.
I had planned to write this blog about our show at Red Clay Theater this past weekend, but a wild ice storm forced us to reschedule. That unexpected slow-down gave me space to reflect on the year ahead, and on one big truth.
I am going to see Rush this summer.
Many people assume I must be completely out of my mind with excitement. I am excited, but my mind is taking its time getting there.
Let me explain.
When Neil died, I honestly felt like the world was ending. I was stunned by the depth of my grief. This year, on the anniversary of his passing, those feelings returned. They were softer, but just as real.
After that awful day in 2020, I began the long process of accepting that Rush were truly over. I had loved them since I was thirteen. I barely remember a time when they were not the soundtrack of my life. Little by little, I learned to live with the idea that I would never see them live again, never hear new music, never be in their presence.
Some days were easier than others. Sometimes I let myself hope that Geddy and Alex might tour on their own. Then Alex shared that he was no longer interested in touring, and another wave of grief arrived, this time mixed with deep gratitude for all the shows I had already experienced.
After five long years, my brain began to accept the loss. I did not like it, but I could live with it most days.
Then, in a single day, my world flipped upside down. Geddy and Alex announced they were going back on tour.
The shock was overwhelming. I bought tickets immediately and stared at my Ticketmaster app in disbelief. There they were. Rush tickets, with Anika Nilles on drums. I love her playing, and I know she will honor Neil beautifully, whom I will always miss.
I ran around the house jumping up and down, exactly as you would expect. And then something unexpected happened. By the next day, my excitement had settled. The shock finally caught up with me.
I had spent years adjusting to being without my boys and now two of them were back. I couldn’t be happier or more grateful.
But it’s going to take time for my mind and heart to catch up with this announcement, and here’s why: I still can’t believe it’s real.
I keep thinking that any minute I will wake up to the reality of their absence again.
Here is my prediction. When show day arrives and I actually see them, the floodgates will open. Anyone going with me should be prepared!
For now, I am simply holding the anticipation with care. I am looking forward to the day I see Geddy and Alex again, and to the moment when my heart finally accepts what is true. They are back, and once again, my world feels right.
If you're seeing Rush, tell us where and when in the comments! Share your thoughts!