What Dick Clark Should Have Done

Media consulting, that's what I do and here's what I would have advised for Dick Clark for New Year's Eve.
In case you didn't know, Clark suffered a stroke more than a year ago, and struggled back to appear on the New Year's Celebration for 2006. During the celebration,
Clark spoke poorly and it was sad to see him and disappointing, since many expected him to be the same old Dick we have seen for decades.
He was able to speak, but it was evident that Clark could no longer provide the communication skills that have become his trademark. Perfect diction and great presence.
Here's what this media advisor would have suggested.
"Dick, it's over, for now. You have had one of the longest careers in broadcasting, but after the stroke, it's important to keep working, but it's more important to preserve your legacy of work.
"You need to have a short taped message on your website explaining that while your physical strength is being regained every day, and you appreciate everyone's concerns and prayers, my speech has not become good enough to return to live TV or radio. You will work to regain your diction, but until then you will remain a vital part of Dick Clark Enterprises and will continue to work on media related projects that have dominated your life.
Then, you write a book about your experience and in a year you do Oprah and make a few million more dollars from book sales and get better.
But Dick didn't ask me. I think he showed a wonderful strength by going on the broadcast, but it also opened him up to ridicule from comedians which no one should have to suffer through.
I admire Dick Clark, and I did find it a curious development that he would return to live media. It shows a strength and courage that few others have. Good luck and God Bless you Dick Clark.