What's a hero? A hero is defined by Merriam-Webster as "A person admired for achievements and noble qualities. One who shows great courage."
When we are asked, "Who are your heroes?" I believe we tend to immediately think of those who have been there for us when we needed them the most and who taught us life lessons. For me personally the people that come to mind first are my parents, grandparents, and my friends/mentors Michael, Pastor John, and Pastor Scott.
But, what about those heroes who aren't there for you, but their achievements, noble qualities, and their great courage touch your life? What about those heroes who you have never met, or have met just a few times, yet they touch your life and inspire you in some way? For me these heroes are little, but mighty, and they are our Wrestling For A Cause (WFC) kids. WFC is about helping kids who are fighting cancer and about raising awareness to childhood cancer. WFC is getting ready to celebrate 6 years and we've helped so many families in this time, and I'm proud to say I've been a part of it in some way for over 4 years now. I started coming as a fan, to watch the wrestling and just support the cause. But, since January 2016 I've been more involved by being their ringside photographer. Not only am I more involved with the cause and helping them out, but it got me more involved with the families. I'm getting the opportunity to get to know the kids and the families on a more personal level.
All of the kids are my heroes. The way they fight and the great courage they show as they battle day in and day out this horrible disease that's called cancer. Today I found out this morning Princess Aaliyah earned her angel wings at 4:43 AM, and as hard as it is on me, I still can't imagine how hard it is on the parents, families, and friends of these kids who have been there their whole lives. This past year four of our heroes earned those angel wings, but we have many kids still fighting. And in honor of those who have been taken away from this world way too soon, I will continue to fight for them and with other kids by being a part of WFC and doing my part to help these families and raise awareness to childhood cancer.
You have all touched many lives, including mine, and are an inspiration to many! These kids and their legacy will live on forever through their families, friends, and people like me. People who will continue the fight for them.
RIP and fly high Aaliyah, Jasmine, Kai, and Luther. You are loved by so many!
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| Aaliyah and her daddy Rod |
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| Jasmine (right) with Maddie who is still fighting |
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| Me with Kai and his daddy Gary |
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| Luther |
