I can’t believe I’m writing this: yesterday the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals blocked Rodney’s execution and said he would have a new trial. After over 20 years of fighting, my friend is no longer set to die for a crime he didn’t commit. And it happened just five days before his execution was scheduled.

Rodney has become part of my family, and one of my best friends, and his life was spared because of millions of people like you. 

I called Rodney last night and told him about how incredible it's been to watch everyone unite and support him. He can only listen when I call – he is allowed only four calls a year. But I know that he always wants supporters to know how grateful he is for everything being done to bring awareness to his case. He has always maintained his innocence, and just wants to go home, hug his mom, children and grandchildren, and enjoy simple pleasures like sharing a meal together.

Today, we celebrate and breath a huge sigh of relief that this man – a son, a brother, my friend  – will go on living. But tomorrow, we keep fighting for his freedom. A stay of execution isn’t enough – Rodney is innocent and deserves the chance to reclaim his life, decades after his freedom was stolen from him. 

Rodney has always believed the truth would set him free. Thank you for shouting the truth from the rooftops so that he has a chance to prove in court that he is innocent.

Thank you so much for taking action. This is a huge step, and we must keep pushing until Rodney is free.