How Journey’S “Be Good To Yourself” Became A Personal Anthem For Hospital Patients

April 2, 2025

In the heart of a bustling city, a hospital stood tall, filled with the sounds of beeping machines and soft whispers of nurses attending to patients. It was here that a special song began to echo through the sterile hallways, bringing hope and comfort to those going through tough times. That song was “Be Good to Yourself” by the rock band Journey. Released in 1986 as part of their album “Raised on Radio,” it quickly became more than just another hit; it transformed into a personal anthem for countless patients fighting their battles in the hospital.

As patients lay in their hospital beds, the familiar notes of the song would drift into their rooms, creating an atmosphere of warmth and strength. The lyrics encouraged listeners to embrace resilience, reminding them that in their toughest moments, they should be kind to themselves and keep pushing forward. One patient, Sarah, a 14-year-old girl battling leukemia, often listened to the song on her portable radio. Whenever she felt weak or scared, the powerful message of the song reminded her that she was not alone. Its upbeat melody gave her the strength to face yet another round of treatment with hope.

Journey’s frontman, Steve Perry, wrote “Be Good to Yourself” during a challenging time in his own life. After going through a painful breakup, he turned to music for solace, pouring his heart and soul into every note and lyric. The song reflects his own journey of self-acceptance and healing, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced hardship. Little did he know that his personal struggles would inspire thousands of others, including patients like Sarah, to find their own strength. The message that life is tough but worth fighting for became a lifeline for those who felt they had lost everything.

Inspired by the song’s uplifting message, many hospital staff members began to play “Be Good to Yourself” in patient rooms and common areas, creating a shared soundtrack of hope. Groups of patients would gather for sing-alongs, their voices blending in a chorus of resilience. The uplifting energy in the air felt palpable, transforming the hospital, often seen as a place of despair, into a sanctuary of hope and healing. Patients found camaraderie in their shared experiences, singing along and reminding each other that they had to be good to themselves even in the darkest of times.

Journey’s song not only became a source of inspiration for the patients but also left a significant mark on Steve Perry’s career. The warm feedback from listeners worldwide further fueled his passion for music and strengthened his resolve to share messages of hope. He began attending charity events and concerts, using his platform to advocate for cancer research and support for patients and their families. Hearing stories of how his music helped others became a powerful reminder of why he started making music in the first place.

Through the years, “Be Good to Yourself” has continued to resonate with those facing adversity, cementing its place as an anthem of hope. It serves as a reminder that amidst the challenges of life, being good to ourselves is the first step toward healing. For Sarah and countless others, Journey’s song was a beacon of light that guided them through their darkest days, proving that music holds the power to uplift spirits and unite hearts. In the end, it was not just a song but a lifeline—an empowering reminder that we all deserve to be good to ourselves.