Granger Smithis honoring hislate son River.
Over the weekend, the 39-year-old country musician debuted a new tattoo while making hisemotional return to the stageat the Country LakeShake music festival in Chicago on Sunday.
The tattoo consists of the name “River” written in large black script across Smith’s right forearm, paying tribute to his 3-year-old son who died earlier this month.
Smith’s rep confirmed to PEOPLE on June 6 thatRiver’s tragic deathwas due to a drowning accident at home. That same day, the country singer shared the “unthinkable” news on Twitter and Instagram, revealing “despite doctor’s best efforts, he was unable to be revived.” River was laid to rest on June 11.
Smith also showed off the tattoo on Tuesdaywhile presenting a check for $218,791to Dell Children’s Medical Center, where River received medical attention before his death.
“Let this be a small token of the gratitude that we’ve got for you guys,” he said of the donation.
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Granger Smith.Rick Kern/Getty
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Granger Smith and family.Granger Smith/Instagram
Before his performance on Sunday, Smith’s wife Ambershared a loving messageto River on Instagram after their family visited a museum in Chicago.
“Getting back on the road and back into daily life without River has not been easy in the slightest,” she said. “Every single thing reminds me of him, and all I can think about is how he would love exploring and seeing all that we are seeing. I see his name everywhere, I see little red-headed toddlers everywhere. I miss his silly personality and his bright light.”
Amber added, “I look around at everyone else and wonder if anyone is going through something like we are. Dumb little things don’t matter anymore. My family does. My faith does. We’ve got this because God’s got us. Thank you all for your continued support, prayers and love. It really does help us so much. #livelikeriv.”
source: people.com
