Inspirational Dad

I was greatly moved by Rick Reilly's article in this week's Sport's Illustrated. Riley wrote about an inspirational Dad and his son. Patrick Henry Hughes was born with a rare genetic disorder that left him without eyes, and with arms and legs that won't straighten. He has not, however, allowed these challenges to defeat him. He is a gifted musician who plays the trumpet in the University of Louisville marching band. He is able to do so because his Dad, Patrick John Hughes, pushes the wheelchair his son is in.

Dad also pushes his son to classes, sits with him and whispers anything written on the blackboard. Then there is band practice and Dad still has to go to work at 11pm. He gets off at 5am, gets a little sleep, then goes to classes and band with his son.

Dad is quoted as saying: "We still say, Why us? But now it's Why us--how'd we get so lucky?"

That my friend is unconditional love!

I'd urge you to read Reilly's article in the Oct 16 edition of SI.