You are not alone.

Avenged Sevenfold has left a Deathbat shaped imprint in the hearts of the many lives they have touched. No matter how small, deep down it will always be with them. Keeping them smiling during times of sadness, keeping them company when they feel loneliness, showing them strength when they feel weak.

Today the world awoke a little bit emptier and colder, and it had nothing to do with the weather. Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan was torn away from us before his time, and well before the world was ready to let go.  As fans, we are in shock, tears and heartbroken. What’s left of my heart goes out to his friends and family at this time, who need privacy and deserve respect.

Avenged Sevenfold have some of the craziest, fun loving, loyal, friendly and passionate fans that I’ve had the chance to meet.  As Bec mentioned earlier today we’ve been able to meet some amazing fans, real fans that saw past everything to take the time to realise what a great man Jimmy was. Our hearts are also with these fans today.

Already fans have started working on a dedication for Jimmy demonstrating how powerful and caring a community their fan base truly are.

I was given the opportunity to meet Jimmy last December in Florida. I was blown away during that single encounter; he was one of the sweetest, friendliest and warmest human beings I’ve met. That day will forever be etched in my heart and I will cherish those memories.

I’m not writing any of this for sympathy, only my own sanity and in hopes of helping others cope. I know those affected have found themselves in situations where friends and family have been unsupportive, making them believe they are not allowed to feel the way they do. I want to reassure you that it’s ok to hurt; you are not alone!

When someone comes into your life they make an impact, good or bad, even if it’s just for a moment.  There is no rule which states you have to physically meet someone in order to miss them, feel sadness or feel their loss. Someone can reach your soul from across the world and they can take a little piece of it when it’s their time to go. Leaving you feeling empty.

Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan, was gifted with talent and love. The size of his heart is measured by the heart breaking sadness that echoes throughout his world by his family, his friends, and his fans.  He went through so much and never gave up on his dreams. He didn’t care what others thought of him. He was a great role model.

Jimmy, you will be missed. Your loss leaves behind a void which cannot be filled. “It’s empty and cold without you here.”

I only hope that from where you are now you’ll watch over us all. Our Guardian Deathbat.

-Cheryl

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The Tributes that have come in for Jimmy have been overwhelming.  Our friends at DeathBatNews have compiled a list of all the touching tributes and are urging for fans to share theirs also. If you have something to say let it be said.