November Winner, DiCamillo: Level III

There are many definitions of the word hero. Everyone's personal definition of the word is different. My example and definition of a hero is my dad.

In the summer of 2006, my family was going to go on vacation to Florida. Our plans were immediately changed when my dad was diagnosed with leukemia. My family was completely devastated. We didn't understand how things went wrong so fast. My dad was always strong and always pushing himself no matter his condition. He continued this positive attitude throughout his time in the hospital.

"Dad lay down! Don't worry about that, rest." These words were constantly coming out of my mouth when he would see something out of place in his room and want to fix it. It was amazing, despite him being so weak and sick, he wanted to be the strong man he always was. It was these things that helped me notice my dad was not just strong but extremely brave as well.

My dad's first chemotherapy session was both a scary and hopeful day. I clearly remember how, even though I was trying to hide it, my dad was trying to comfort me and my fears. It was extremely brave and selfless of him considering his condition.

I remember studying Helen Keller in school that year and despite her disabilities, she continued to push forward and with much effort and work, she became very successful. I began to notice many similarities between Helen and my father and that is when I truly discovered that my dad was a hero.

Thankfully, my dad survived the horrible disease and is living today. My dad did not use his experience as a story to gain pity and sorrow from others, but instead uses it as a story of inspiration and hope for many other cancer patients he has met and continues to meet, further proving his heroic characteristics.