Who Is Your Hero?

Do you have a personal hero? Tell us about them. It doesn’t have to be perfect to make a difference in someone else’s life.

Your Everyday Hero: Thomas Y.

Our son, Thomas, turned 10 on February 12, 2005. He was born pre-mature at 27 weeks and weighed only 2 lbs, 10 ounces. Within 24 hours after his birth, he was dying. We had signed consent for the doctors to try a new treatment, nitrous oxide. When all seemed lost, Thomas's vitals starting creeping back to healthier levels. He was hospitalized in the neo-natal ward for four months. He had double laser eye surgery on Easter Sunday, as he was going blind from retinopathy. He has a hearing deficit. It was necessary for Thomas to receive a Ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. His doctor calls him a miracle.

Thomas now is in the 3rd grade and works very hard in school. We have explained to him the reason he can not run as fast is the cerebral palsy. But he runs, and he runs with enthusiasm. Last summer in Basketball camp, Thomas got the Camp Hustle Award. He plays Little League, and Youth Basketball. He loves sports, and plays not because we encourage him, but because we can not keep him off the fields or courts. Thomas has a big heart, and really has empathy for the less fortunate. He has no idea how special he is.

Story was submitted anonymously