My Daddy, My Hero
In 2015, my family’s world changed forever when my daddy, Bryan, was diagnosed with ALS. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what it meant, but over the years, I would learn more than I ever expected—about ALS, about my dad, and about myself.
My dad wasn’t just my father; he was my hero. He was the person I looked up to, the one who taught me what it meant to be strong, kind, and selfless. Even as ALS took its toll on his body, it never took away his spirit. He faced every challenge with grace and courage, and in doing so, he taught me some of the most important lessons of my life.
Watching him fight ALS wasn’t easy. There were moments of frustration, sadness, and fear. But through it all, my dad showed me what it means to truly live with dignity. He never let his diagnosis define him. He focused on the love and joy around him—his family, his friends, and the memories we created together.
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In 2020, my dad passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire me every day. Losing him was the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of who he was and who I want to be.
I strive to live like my dad did—with kindness, resilience, and an unshakable sense of love for the people who matter most. I want to make him proud, not just by remembering him, but by carrying forward the values he embodied.
This journey has been one of heartbreak, but also one of growth. It’s taught me the power of love, the strength in vulnerability, and the importance of cherishing every moment. My dad may be gone, but his influence is with me always.
He was, and always will be, my hero.
