We all have people in life that we look to for inspiration and hope. It’s those people that we look at in amazement when we see the incredible accomplishments they’ve achieved in whatever it is they do. Man or woman , we as a human race are evolving at such a rapid rate in technology, science,sports the arts and music. You name it, the human race is constantly advancing forward and defying all odds and realizing the endless capabilities we posses. I don’t have to look to far for inspiration in my world. My father who has been a pillar of strength in the community and wherever he goes shines his positive energy and happiness to all he comes into contact with.
Last year he had heart surgery to repair a leaky valve that was a genetic disorder. Not only did it test the faith of his will, it was a test to my whole family that love him so very much. He was very stressed as anyone in his situation would be, knowing that his chest was being cracked open for open heart surgery. He handled the situation with such grace and dignity and very seldom let his emotions which lied very close to the surface come about in a negative manner. I think I was more worried than him about the unknown. Well for the grace of a power that was looking over his spirit that day, because the surgery went on for two hours longer than it should have. His heart had grown bigger than normal and was working on overtime. The doctor said if they hadn’t gone in when they did a heart attack was inevitable in a short time.
He made it through the surgery and the recovery was long and hard for the first eight months. I saw the man who always exemplified hero status in my mind have to endure a lot of physical and mental pain. With the willingness to never except being down, he persevered and mentally fought back like a warrior. Little by little he regained his strength through a positive mental attitude, healthy diet and exercise. He made it his goal to come back stronger than ever. And now at the age of 65 he’s like a machine again with a new lease on life. He talks often about his “second chance”. He doesn’t waste a second complaining about anything, and his faith has taken on a new belief. The doctors that perform these surgeries at times don’t get the credit they deserve. These amazing doctors are examples of some of the real heroes in this world that give so many people a second chance in life.
I’m proud of my father and his inner drive to not only survive, but take his life to another level and want to be even better. He gives service to other patients with heart problems, works charity events for cancer, and is always there to lend a hand. He doesn’t ever look for a pat on the back or any credit, he does it all for a love for humanity and life which comes straight from his HEART!
THANKS TO ALL YOU PEOPLE THAT INSPIRE- Ryan