David Kelso Spradling III - known by most as Kelso - has been a radio icon for over 30 years. What more can you say about a man who once broadcasted live from Kashmir, wearing a cashmere sweater, and played – what else – Kashmir from Led Zeppelin? He interviewed countless rock stars, partied with celebrities, traveled the world, was imbedded with troops in war torn countries, has been tazed and teargassed, dodged bullets and artillery fire…all while doing what he loved. In recent years, Dave earned his master’s degree in Journalism. In addition to being a DJ on KOMA, Kelso and is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Oklahoma’s Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication. He is a loving husband, father, son, brother, friend, leader, educator, entertainer, inspiration for others, and equal parts gentleman and rascal. Currently, our friend is fighting for his life.
In November of 2019 David was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive type of cancer that occurs in the brain or spinal cord. As with most things Kelso, he did not take it sitting down. Dave fought this cancer with every fiber of his being. Soon after initiating therapy, he wanted to take his experience and do something for others. “When you find yourself in a deep, dark hole,” Dave said, “the first light you have to turn on is your own.” He and his friends formed Hike to Heal, a therapy group to help “spread the light” to patients, families, and survivors of cancer. Kelso led over 15 hikes in the past year and a half; all while struggling with his own recovery.
Unfortunately, David and his family were recently told that they have exhausted all medical options. Kelso is surrounded by family and friends that love him. While he is declining physically and cognitively, he loves all of you. Your words of inspiration and thoughtfulness mean the world to him. Please feel free to leave a message below and we will ensure it is passed along. Thank you. Love and light to all of you.
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As all parents and spouses do, Kelso had big plans for the future. He planned to see his son, David IV, walk across the stage at his college graduation and to, eventually, retire and travel the world with his wife, Dana. The time needed to financially prepare for those dreams has been tragically cut short. The cost of therapies have far exceeded even the best, health insurance coverage and continue to climb. Dana is burdened with covering medical, living, and educational expenses in David’s absence. If you would like to contribute, you can do so via the link to the right of the page. All funds collected will go directly to the family. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.