1 Tim tim@indiewood.net 1 2009-08-09T17:54:16-06:00 Terry 2675 H 566 Terry Hitchcock is my Hero. After tragically losing his wife to breast cancer and struggling to raise three young children on his own, Terry Hitchcock seized on an idea. He wanted to accomplish the impossible: run 75 consecutive marathons in 75 consecutive days to bring attention to the incredibly difficult lives of single-parent families. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Kelly tmbrwolf329@yahoo.com 1 2009-08-13T00:36:00-06:00 Elva 2680 M 568 My hero is my Mom. She has always been a steady, motivating influence in my life. After she retired, she and my Dad decided to travel around, but ended up living in a very small community in deep South Texas. When they moved here, they realized that this community has a terrible frequency of poverty, hopelessness, and despair. So, Mom and Dad began a nonprofit organization here to identify the root causes of poverty in our community, and to create systemic solutions. My Dad has remained a steadfast volunteer, but my Mom has really been the person who has shaped the vision and the services that are offered in this organization. After my divorce, I moved to the same small town that Mom and Dad lived in, and now I am the CEO of the same organization. My Mom is 75 years old, and spends (on average) about 100 hours a week volunteering in the very organization she began. In the 6 years the organization has been in existence, we have helped to transform the lives of countless people who have traditionally been undervalued and who would otherwise have been unable to achieve the goals that they dreamed of. My Mom is the definition of true hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Paula mailstuff1@yahoo.com 1 2009-08-21T19:39:10-06:00 Kenda 2686 N 570 Kenda is a Hero as she has brought more joy, smiles and higher self-esteem to my young adult child and others like him. You see, Kenda created and directs "Movement E-Motion", a dance program for individuals with different abilities - young adults aged 13 to seniors with Down Syndrome, Autism and physical challenges. This lady, the artistic director of AZDance Group which is a professional contemporary touring dance company, a professional herself for over 29 years, created this program for these particular individuals in order to provide artistic physical activity, movement, expression and dance to them. Participants and parents gain friends, interaction and integration, physical fitness, and higher self-esteem. They also gain incredible exposure to classical and contemporary dance styles taught in a dance classroom as well as outstanding performing opportunities. Kenda has written grants, given her time and done more the past 4 years for our children than anyone I know - to see my child up on stage alongside a professional dancer is an emotion I cannot describe. Kenda has brought so much to my family; she is my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Dave Hillman dave@dhillman.com 1 2009-08-22T08:54:08-06:00 Alan 2687 T 571 Al was an educator who believed the best in kids and families. He was a highly regarded (and award winning) elementary school principal when I first met him and not too much later, I found out he had MS. He retired after 25 years and fought MS for his, too few, remaining years. He died a few years ago, far too young - but content that he had made a difference in the lives of countless children. Al cared about children, knew how to get the best out of teachers, and understood what it took to create and run a school that benefited everyone in the community. Al lived his life like a shining model for all those who knew and cared for him. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 rachel rebgemm@aol.com 1 2009-09-03T00:32:21-06:00 Rabbi Mordechai 2692 M 573 Rabbi Mordechai and his wife Henny have been, for the past 30 years, turning their tiny apartment into a guest house for thousands of people. Every weekend the Rabbi and his wife host meals for hundreds of guests in their small apartment. They literally cook all hours of the night to prepare enough food for everyone who comes. They also help people find places to stay. Having spent many late Thursday nights cooking with the Rabbi's daughters for over a hundred guests a week, I have personally witnessed the extraordinary dedication of the Rabbi and his wife. Every single week they open their house to hundreds of homeless, destitute people with no where else to go! One story about Rabbi Mordechai stands out among the many. There was a homeless man who used to come to their Jerusalem apartment every week. He was extremely needy since he had lost his house. Rabbi Mordechai, who had no room left in his apartment, agreed to let this poor homeless man sleep in his (Rabbi Mordechai's) car every night until he was able to get back on his feet! Eventually, he just gave the man his car for good. The incredible kindness they have shown to thousands of people is unreal. The amount of dedication they have put in is something that has to be seen to be believed. 2009-12-18T11:25:44-07:00 1 USA 2006-08-28T06:08:39-06:00 John 6 R. 1 Colorado This young man faced tragedy, overcame it and became a helper of others. His religious values, athletic abilities, and drive gives renewed hope to the returning disabled veterans from the war on terror.\r\n\r\nHe scored highly in the 1983 Illinois State high school track meet; was a two-time All-American at the University of Arkansas; and won many medals on the All Army Track and Field Team. While in the World Class Athletes Program, he served in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.\r\n\r\nThough his left leg was amputated after a track accident in May of 1994, his spirit to excel and overcome adversity remained strong. Employed by the Department of Defense in the W C A Program, he continued rehabilitation by swimming. His Olympian goal was satisfied by membership on the 1996 U. S. Paralympics swim team and an American paralympics long jump record in Sydney, Australia. Now associate director of the U. S. Olympics Paralympics Academy, he provides clinics for recent veteran amputees. His presence and presentation instilled courage in an older amputee to give hope to others. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Los Gatos USA 2006-08-28T06:21:03-06:00 Alan 11 F. 6 California Alan is a wonderful man who works as a high risk obstetrician. He has saved countless mothers and babies, and he does it every day. Alan does such wonderful things every day, and he doesn't go around flaunting it. He says he's just doing his job, but he's really giving back to the community, and saving lives each and every day of his fantastic life. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Ames USA 2006-08-28T06:53:06-06:00 Micah 23 S. 18 Iowa Chorus has just ended and I am so excited about going to woodshop that I don't see these chairs in my way. Then suddenly, I trip over them and go flying and land on the ground unconscious. My breath is knocked out of me. It aches and hurts just to move, walk or get up. Micah says, “Ben!” with lots of worry in his voice. He comes over to me and asks me if I am okay. I tell him I will be okay. Then Micah and some other people come over to me and pick me up and carry me by my shoulders. For a while they are kind of like my legs. I try walking with them still holding me, but I bump into walls. My knees and legs wobble and shake, plus I am very pale. They help me up staircases and hallways into the nurse's office. Another student, Jacob, gets the door for me. Micah explains what has happened to the nurse. She says, “Thank you Micah.” And then I thank him too for helping me up the stairs. That's why my hero is Micah. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Lynwood USA 2006-08-28T07:23:31-06:00 Keith 29 S. 24 Washington My father is my greatest hero. Although he is missing fingers from his left hand, is riddled with a liver disease, Hepatitis C and a Vietnam shrapnel wound that's eating his leg, he is constantly smiling, laughing, and doing things for friends and family members. He spends hours helping others even when his health is ailing, often for free. He lives with and takes care of his parents - cooking dinners every night and helping out when their health fails them, or when a chore needs to be done.\r\n\r\nMy father is such an inspiration to me. He is the best parent and example I could have ever asked for. He is unassuming and kind to everyone he meets. He stops to talk to strangers any time he's out running errands; often lifting a hand to help them with their groceries, getting the door for them, or simply striking up a friendly conversation.\r\n\r\nI have seen life from a new perspective through my father. If he can do it, I can too. I cherish every day I can spend with him. He is such an enlightening inspiration to me. Through him I have learned the true meaning of happiness, laughter, kindness, and a gentle smile. He is such a great man, and I love him so very much. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Silver Spring USA 2006-08-28T08:09:46-06:00 Rachel 51 F. 46 Maryland As she watches her mother fight breast cancer this year, Rachel has persevered, believing that if anyone can beat the illness, it's her mother, Bernice. Through the chemotherapy, hair loss, and emotional hardship, Bernice has thus far defeated the hardest of enemies, a malady that threatened her health and happiness. Despite her mother's progress, Rachel decided that she wanted to help increase awareness of the disease that infects one in seven women sometime during their lifetime. Last year, Rachel marched proudly in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer-Boston Walk. But that wasn't enough for her, who, faced with her mother's continuing struggle, wanted to take on a more personal project. Rachel started a fund coordinating through Brandeis University to raise a targeted sum of $1500. Within a few days, donations began to pour in, mostly made in the name of Bernice and her compassionate daughter. It is Rachel’s hope that even women without the strength and wherewithal that her mother possesses will also get the chance to live on. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Tucson USA 2006-08-28T09:27:51-06:00 Jacob 59 H. 54 Arizona Jacob is a very special, very wonderful man who always goes above and beyond what is expected of him. You see Jacob is a lead crew member for a local construction company. And one day at work the roof came crashing down on two of his co-workers. Trapping them beneath weight that no man can stand for too long. Jacob, without even a second thought, jumped to the ground - grabbing a ladder to help him prop the roof - he lifted the wood. With one hand propping the roof and with the other hand pulling the two men to safety. These things may be small but to me it’s just something that this kind man would do without even a second thought. And I just think that things like this should be noticed. Thank you for taking the time to hear about my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 St. George USA 2006-08-28T09:41:29-06:00 DeAnne 67 S. 62 Utah I first met DeAnne after signing up to volunteer at her clinic. She is the Director of a Doctors' Free Clinic in Utah and has been for seven years. She is one of the most dedicated women I have ever met. She has taken care of over 12,000 patients since the doors opened back in 1999. She never turns anyone down regardless of their wants. It's a difficult job when you are raising a family of four daughters and she does find time for everyone.\r\n\r\nI admire her for the non-judgmental manner in which she sees all people, uninsured, homeless, elderly and the very young. Watching her makes me very tired. But, it also encourages me to do better with people less fortunate than myself. She is selfless and very caring. I admire her qualities and attitudes when it comes to helping others out of poverty and making life better for everyone.\r\n\r\nI would like to nominate DeAnne and recognize all that she does for so many people in the community. She has no idea just how needed her services are. The clinic is a mainstay now and without her, it might not be the success that it is. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Tomah USA 2006-08-28T10:16:30-06:00 David 86 R. 81 Wisconsin I think there are many heroes in the world but I definitely think my dad is one of them. Many people probably have written about their parents but my dad is definitely a hero, he has been gone for a very long time fighting the war in Iraq (he's stationed in Kuwait) and still trying to find every second to call and come back here.\r\n\r\nI know he's a hero because even though he's gone fighting for our country, he still keeps up all our values and tells us everyday to be the best people we can be everyday. He reminds me of that guy in the commercial for this website with the guy who let the other people take the cab ride. He is always doing things for people like that. He keeps up his good spirits even in times of need and he is always here for his country and his family and that is what makes him truly a hero, not just for the family but for all Americans! 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Ashtabula USA 2006-08-28T11:07:38-06:00 Sandi 109 L. 104 Ohio My hero is my grandmother, Sandi. She and my grandfather have owned their own bookstore for about 15 years and have never once given up on it. It is hard for her because she has to work every single day, except for Sundays because she goes to church. She is the hardest worker I have ever met in my whole life. Even when she had surgery on her foot, she still tried to work as much as possible. She's also very giving. Their bookstore doesn't bring in a lot of money but she always manages to give everyone in our family things they couldn't afford themselves. Just recently I found out that they are going to give up the bookstore, but I know that even though she won't be working in the bookstore, she'll find other ways to help people. I know that this will give her more time to help in church, which she loves more than anything. In my future I hope to make movies and I guarantee you that every one I make I will dedicate to her. As much as I love every single member of my family, no one can compare to her and everything she's accomplished in her life. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Ngong Kenya 2006-08-29T03:52:34-06:00 Dr. Michael 114 M. 109 Dr Michael M. has worked with the poor in Africa for nearly 30 years. He has been in many famines and droughts and has lived with the northern nomads in Uganda and Kenya, living as they do. He has build clinics, schools, health programs and water projects. He founded The International Community for Relief of Starvation and Suffering (ICROSS) in six countries and is the North of Kenya now fighting starvation.His fight against poverty was a recent BBC hard talk show that touched many Africans like me. We award celebrities for talking at events about the poor, this man has given every day of his life to them. That’s a hero to me. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Saugatuck USA 2006-08-29T03:53:51-06:00 Bob 115 R. 110 Michigan I cannot think of anyone who is a greater hero to us than Bob. Bob started a charitable organization in l988 to make a real and measurable difference in the lives of America's elderly through arts and music programs that they would not otherwise have any access to! Since then, Bob's organization has brought cheer to thousands of individuals across America, providing some 200 free shows a year, for people who desperately need some joy. I know of Bob's work first-hand as my father (now deceased) was a resident of a care facility where Bob provided regular music programs. I can tell you, my father and the rest of the patients lived for his visits. In an era of selfishness, greed and uncaring attitudes, this young man stands way out as someone who has accomplished something truly heroic. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Newbury USA 2006-08-29T03:55:44-06:00 Timmons Elementary School 116 111 Ohio Timmon’s Elementary School in Ohio developed a campaign to collect schools supplies and new/slightly used books for schools in the Gulf Coast. Along with a truck full of school supplies, they collected a total of 558 books! 252 were K-2; 306 were 3rd to 5th, and they went to restock school libraries at Central Elementary School and St. Martin's Upper Elementary in Mississippi. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Philadelphia USA 2006-08-29T03:58:51-06:00 D'elve 117 112 Pensylvania Growing up in Philadelphia, D’elve’s childhood was fraught with sexual, mental and physical abuse. He internalized guilt, fears and anger, and found some solace in religion. But it wasn’t until he began writing down his innermost feelings that he found true peace: the experience became cathartic, and a lifelong writer was born.\r\n\r\nD’elve’s passion for writing dovetailed perfectly with his religion. Receiving degrees in Theology, he is an ordained minister and founder of Philadelphia’s Battle Ground Youth Ministries - an organization dedicated to helping at-risk inner city youth and young adults. Quite remarkably, D’elve took in up to 8 people at a time without any outside funding; he contributed to their cost of college education, clothed and counseled them, helped many find jobs and equipped them with life skills.\r\n\r\nToday, many that have gone through D’elve’s program have gone onto lead productive and emotionally fulfilled lives. He has become mentor and friend to many - both young and old. D’elve has found that by confronting his past on paper, he has been able to move on in his own mind and heart. Rather than be weighted down by the past, he has liberated himself - and others. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Ansonia USA 2006-08-29T03:59:56-06:00 Nichalos 118 D. 113 Connecticut Nick has raised over $800.00 dollars this year and last year in school selling bracelets for "The Swim" fighting cancer.\r\n\r\nIt was his own idea to help out. He has spent a lot of time and effort and enjoyed all of it. He really feels good about helping out the people who are sick with cancer in our community. Also, Nick is 10 years old. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Indianapolis USA 2006-08-29T04:01:12-06:00 Jessica 119 C. 114 Indiana This may sound like a strange nomination; however, I would like to nominate my daughter Jessica. She is only 5 years old but she is an inspiration beyond her years. In October of 2005, she helped me put together a donation drive for school supplies for the Hurricane Katrina victims. Our family delivered these supplies to a school district in East Baton Rouge for displaced students. Jessica was involved from day one. She helped collect the items, she helped organize and pack them as well. She also helped encouage her kindergarten class to get involved and they gathered items that we took with us. Upon our arrival to Baton Rouge, Jessica continued her help as she helped unload the boxes and bags of supplies. Jessica was 100% involved. I never knew that a 5-year-old child could be such and inspiration to their parent as Jessica was to me. In closing, as we drove down the coast I asked Jessica what she had learned. She said, “I wish I could help. I wish I could help them build a new house.” What could ever compare to that! The proudest moment of a parent’s life! 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Alpine USA 2006-08-29T04:06:34-06:00 Dean 122 L. 117 Utah My hero is Deputy L. with the Utah County Sheriff’s Office. He is a hero in my eyes because every day he is out there risking his life to make our community a safer place to live. No matter what the time or conditions, such as Christmas Day, middle of the night, rain, snow and so forth he is out there helping people and making a difference without complaint. Deputy L. also is responsible for helping others due to the fact that he teaches a self-defense class to teens for free. He is my idol and I wish to be just like him one day. This is my way of saying a well-deserved thank you. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Fergus Falls USA 2006-08-29T04:08:05-06:00 Trevor 123 U. 118 Minnesota Trevor has always been a great friend of mine. We've grown up together, going to the same school and church. He's always been a great hero of mine because of his gift of helping others. He hasn't only helped me and in my life, but others at our school. Whenever someone is feeling down, or is tired, or spiritually troubled, Trevor is the first one to take action. He goes up to them and talks with them. And every time that person is done talking with Trevor, you can tell that Trevor’s willingness to go up and talk with them helps the other person tremendously. Trevor has and always will be that way. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Fort Worth USA 2006-08-29T04:09:45-06:00 Daryl 124 J. 119 Texas Daryl is involved with almost every aspect of the church, area youth & local charity programs. He started a 2-on-2 basketball league for area youths to provide wholesome recreation. This past summer he brought a number of teens to Mexico to participate in "Habitat for Humanity". Once a month, he helps make 400-600 sandwiches for the homeless. Daryl can also be found at chili cook-offs, bake sales, car washes, prayer vigils, working at the city food bank, and Vacation Bible School as a counselor. He counsels students needing help with free tutoring. He has helped me grow spiritually, emotionally free. He is retiring in a few years; both he and his wife plan to enter missionary service. He has a cheerful personality, big smile, and soft words of wisdom. He is admired by all. I have known Daryl for about a year. I had been in a terrible auto accident and not able to do much; the comfort Daryl brings me by driving 17 miles every Thursday to visit has played a great part in my physical, spiritual and mental healing. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Wautoma USA 2006-08-29T04:39:45-06:00 Jennifer 125 S. 120 Wisconsin Jennifer is a Staff Sergeant in the Army, and is currently stationed in Iraq. She has given up college twice because of the Army, but never loses her direction. She wants to be an early childhood teacher, but more than that, she wants to help the under-privileged kids. During her time in Iraq, hurricane Katrina happened. Even being there, she thought of the children and challenged our town, and her family to raise money for the kids. Her donation was over $500 for art supplies and simple things to keep their minds off the tragedy. She also gave us the names of soldiers who needed to know they were remembered. She is always thinking of others first. She is a leader, she is what family is about, she is the most positive person I know, and she spreads that where ever she goes. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Douglas USA 2006-08-29T04:41:41-06:00 Joseph 126 B. 121 Massachusetts This father of four lives by the example of volunteerism. For Easter Seals, he chairs his company's softball & volleyball yearly tournaments. He mountain bikes for charities: American Diabetes & National MS Society. He’s a Ride leader for Pedro's Festival, Lanesboro. He was a volunteer at the Franklin Blades Skating School where he nurtures beginner ice-skaters. He’s active at Iskwelahang Pilipino, weekend cultural school & serves yearly at Lowell International Folk Festival. He assists with Wide Horizons for Children's annual cultural event. A member of National Federation of Filipino American Associations promoting the welfare of Fil-Ams, he served as MC, gratis to their events. He helped raise funds for victims of 9-11 tragedy. He donates blood regularly to the American Red Cross. For the Health Organization for the Poor Enterprise (HOPE), which provides assistance to those devastated by natural disasters, he was in the Philippines for a Premedical mission in 2001 and continues to support HOPE's efforts. For his 40th birthday in 2003, in lieu of gifts, family and friends made donations to Cam Neely Foundation for Cancer in his honor. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Northbrook USA 2006-08-29T04:43:16-06:00 Joanne 127 M. 122 Illinois My hero is my mother, Joanne. She lives her life with grace, dignity, and a "never give-up" attitude. She has lived with rheumatoid arthritis since her early adulthood, and has survived four bouts of cancer. But, you wouldn't know it. She is grateful for all of her many blessings and sees suffering as part of life. She believes that her purpose in life is to love and help others. In 1997, She started the Raggedy Ann Club. The RAC is a non-profit organization that makes handmade Raggedy Ann dolls for children in need. Through the years, the RAC has donated hundreds of dolls to children in hospitals, in domestic violence shelters, and in Iraq, and more. She does all of this without looking for any credit. She believes that there's no end to the greatness that people can do if they are not looking for credit. 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Bronx USA 2006-08-29T04:45:32-06:00 Jackeline 129 O. 124 New York I read a lot of the stories written by people who have a person in their life that they consider a hero because of an extraordinary thing they have done. I am nominating my dear friend Jackie. She is an amazing woman, she is always helping others, and all I can say is that it's in her nature. Jackie also has a neurological condition that makes it very difficult for her to walk up and down stairs. I know for many people this would be a set back, but not for her. She not only works harder at things, she helps kids as well, being an occupational therapist, so here are all the facts in why I consider my dear friend Jackie amazing! 2009-09-12T00:00:17-06:00 1 Nesconset USA 2006-08-29T07:05:19-06:00 Robert 206 F. 200 New York My daughter's teacher had an in-house program to teach the children about "RESPECT." Mr. F. did the program and is well known here in Nesconset, as Bobby-Dawg, A kid’s best friend, the creator of Team Dawg Cartoon Characters.\r\n\r\nI think that Bobby is a true super hero around here on Long Island. Not only has he had a career with the NYPD, but has chosen a continued career as a mentor to children through his programs and now his children's book series. His passion for the welfare of our kids and their future is heroic to say the least. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Pottsville USA 2006-08-29T07:09:31-06:00 Patricia and John 208 F. 202 Pennsylvania I cannot nominate one of my parents without the other. Together they are amazing. They have been married for 33 years, and have been through so much. Their youngest child, and only son, was killed in a car accident at 18, even though he wasn't driving. Crohn's disease, heart disease, Burger’s disease, are just a few of the problems my father has had since 1983. They still demonstrate love for each other and their two remaining daughters and grandchildren. We lost our grandfather in March, and to this day my mother and father attend to the need of my grandmother. My father also teaches young high school girls their dream for becoming an amazing pitcher for windmill softball, free of charge. They donate their time to all. They have made me the person I am today, and I couldn't think of two better people to nominate as heroes. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 San Marcos USA 2006-08-29T09:04:13-06:00 Chris 219 A. 213 Califonia My husband is a hero to me and our two children. And a lot of other people. He will do anything to help others. And always thinks of himself last. He has a huge heart. We have two wonderful kids who think the world of him. We couldn't have asked for a better father and husband. He’s been through a lot and his journey is not over. He spent most of 2003 in Iraq. And is looking at another year there soon. We love him and he will always be hero to us. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Winder USA 2006-08-29T09:56:02-06:00 Jena 227 S. 221 Georgia Jena is the 2005 Miss Junior National Teenager and is a sophomore in high school. She is taking her crown, sash and title and using it to teach other teens across the nation about volunteerism and how much fun it is. For six years Jena has volunteered for the American Cancer Society and has raised over $50,000 so far. Winning this title has given her the opportunity to travel and speak about what volunteering means to her.\r\n\r\nThrough her website, Jena mentors teens from out of state on how to start their own Relay for Life teams that benefits the American Cancer Society. She has created several fundraising activities. She created Cartridge for Kids at her middle school as well as Stay Warm for Winter sweater drive that benefits the homeless which both still continue. Volunteering to her does not mean putting on her crown and signing autographs. It means rolling up her sleeves and working. Sometimes volunteering may not be glamorous, but it’s about the community service benefit.\r\n\r\nShe is proud to represent her State and Nation as Miss Junior National Teenager and has set a personal goal to make 100 volunteer appearances before her year ends in July. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Curwensville USA 2006-08-29T10:09:15-06:00 Elaine 233 N. 227 Pennsylvania Elaine is a 34-year-old single mother to over 50 children. She has one biological child, four adopted children, 3 of which have disabilities, and she has been a foster mother to over 50 kids including me. At the age of 24, she became a foster parent and began taking in teenagers nobody wanted. One of those teenagers abandoned her two children at Elaine’s door and she adopted them. She recently adopted two older children, ages 7 and 8, and is still looking to adopt more. She has formed a non-profit organization which helps youth in the foster care system who are aging out continue to have a family. Elaine has given her life to the dedication of helping others never asking anything in return. Many times she has even bought books for youth in college. She was recently recognized by a magazine in which she was chosen as one of the most remarkable women in the world. If you asked her for a wish, it would be something to do with helping children. When her car broke down, instead of getting it fixed she helped another youth get a car. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Derryhirk USA 2006-08-29T10:12:39-06:00 Patrick 235 D. 229 Pennsylvania Throughout all my life my father, Patrick, has taught me to share whatever I have with others. Even through family death and bankruptcy, he never changed his character. Every time my friends visit the house, my father is always the first to offer them gifts or help. While Patrick doesn't have much, he enjoys what is in front of him. I have learned from him that if I can't appreciate what I have at this very second, I'll never be fully happy in the longer term. The neighbors are almost afraid to go on holiday in case Dad decides to paint their fences or build a sunroom just because he enjoys helping others! He already has! 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Upper Darby USA 2006-08-29T10:20:15-06:00 Jillian 240 B. 234 Pennsylvania I want to nominate my friend Jillian. A few years ago, Jillian overcame her battle with cancer. Since then, she has been on a mission to help others using her skills and gifts as an athlete.\r\n\r\nJillian was a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and Wing Chun before she got sick, but after she got well, Jillian began training in boxing and wrestling. At age 44, she still trains and competes, but she also helps others. Jillian started a fitness and health program to teach others how to stay fit and healthy through holistic nutrition, herbs and natural supplements. She also teaches self-defense to females, and has a special program for those females who have been victims of sexual assault, rape or domestic violence.\r\n\r\nNow, Jillian is training to compete in several fitness events, including running marathons and holding self-defense seminars across the country, in order to raise $2 million for various cancer charities. She just launched T-shirt sales with partial proceeds being donated to charity.\r\n\r\nJillian puts her heart, soul and body on the line to reach out and teach others through her example of compassion, hard work and dedication to people. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Elizabethville USA 2006-08-29T10:39:55-06:00 Craig 250 H. 244 Pennsylvania I would like to nominate my husband as a hero, not only because he is a wonderful husband, but also because he is a great friend. Craig is a high school History teacher, basketball coach, student advisor and shooting team coach. He is also active in his community though his church and local fire department. He is always there to help, whether it's a friend in need, or a complete stranger. Many times I have seen Craig go out of his way to help someone. He teaches not only in the classroom but though his actions outside the classroom. I have learned to be a better person though him. I often ask his advice, because I know he looks at life differently than most: with strong values that were passed on to him through his parents. Craig doesn't see himself as a hero, but I do. Everyday he makes life better for others, and that is a hero to me. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Ansbach Germany 2007-02-16T05:26:45-07:00 Terrance 269 S 255 Beyern My hero is my dad. He is in the military. He is deployed for the second time. I miss him and love him. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Sydney Australia 2007-03-28T17:54:45-06:00 Jessie 277 S. 257 NSW Jessie S. I can't really describe her in a paragraph. She is one of the most influential and wonderful people in my life. Jessie is kind, thoughtful and an all-around pleasure to be with. She has an awesome character and strives to do well in every aspect of what she does. She is always cheerful and full of life. Jessie is my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Little Rock USA 2007-05-01T19:24:38-06:00 Betty 301 B. 270 Arkansas My hero is my mom. By the time she was twenty six she had six kids. She stayed at home with us until the youngest was eight. She always made sure we were as safe and secure as she could. She was fourteen when she had her first child, and was a grandmother at thirty. Every one is always welcome in her house. Until this day she works a part time job and keeps her house neat and clean. She inspires me not to complain about housework or motherly duties. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Inuvil Sri Lanka 2007-05-01T22:27:13-06:00 Nalliah 303 K. 271 Jaffna My father(1926-89) is my hero. He taught me to love fellow humans; not to harm others; to enjoy life with a sense of humour everyday; to learn everyday from everything or everybody; to thank god for all we have; to help others; to realise the truth and happiness; to enjoy cooking, eating, studying, working as well as talking and sleeping. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Fairfield USA 2007-05-13T18:59:15-06:00 Ken 310 G 273 Connecticut My dad is my hero, not just because he's my dad, but because I’m fairly certain that he's a hero to everyone he's met. \r\n\r\nThe other night he took me out to ice cream and we sat by the water talking. When I went to school the next day, I mentioned how my dad had taken me out. My friends were so “weirded out” by this. One of them said "what do you talk about with your dad?" As if it wasn't normal to be able to carry on a conversation with my father. I suddenly realized how lucky I was to have a healthy and rich relationship with my dad. I think that he sets an example for all parents: Just because you might be from different generations doesn’t mean you can't talk. \r\n\r\nBeing a doctor, my dad obviously helps people, but he is one of the most special doctors I have met. Today at lunch, on the way home from a family trip, he spotted a lady in a restaurant. He said to us "she looks so familiar." A few minutes later, he said, "I think she might have been one of my patients. No, she was my lab technician from my old job (nearly 10 years ago). She was the nicest woman ever." Though I teased him about remembering a random lady, I knew that people like him make real relationships. After ten years, he can remember people and appreciate them.\r\n\r\nFor the strong relationship we have, and the lasting relationships he builds with others, I feel lucky to have him as my dad. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Cassino Italia 2007-05-22T12:17:21-06:00 Maria 318 R 276 Frosinone My hero is my Gran, and my best friend. She gave me my Italian blood, for which I am very grateful. \r\n\r\nMy Gran is like a friend as well as a grandmother, and I know she will accept me whatever my condition. \r\n\r\nWe laugh loads despite the challenges we face at any moment. \r\n\r\nShe is my inspiration for all I do as I strive to impress; though I know if I did nothing at all I would still be perfect in her eyes. \r\n\r\nI hope to spend many more years with my Gran. She is my ultimate hero.\r\n\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Baumholder, Germany (stationed in Army) U.S.A. 2007-06-12T02:57:46-06:00 Carter 333 S 277 From 2 states- CA & KY My Darling Son is My Hero\r\nA Poem to him, a soldier....\r\n\r\nTo live so boldly, to dare and overcome\r\nDaily dealings take a path that surprises...saddens\r\nLeaving God to make sense of the total sum\r\n \r\nTo rise to necessity, giving yourself for us\r\nYelling commands follow down mazes of mayhem\r\nNo hindsight needed, beyond the sandy chaos\r\n \r\nTo take the moment, and make it count for all\r\nBreathlessly regrouping, searching, finding...capture\r\nCountless suffering desires from the battle torn streets...call \r\n\r\nTo guide and maneuver, to believe in your own\r\nGiving all that's required, then more, for the mission\r\nMaking the most of possibilities for all to go home\r\n \r\nTo finish there, and turn your heart to hear the sound\r\nYour mother's call, son? Can you now come home?\r\nTo the rolling Kentucky hills, to the quiet of a small town\r\n \r\nTo comfort you in love, to hold you in my arms\r\nSleeping in silence, waking to a clean slate, clear sky blue day\r\nNo rumble of artiliary, just suburban homes, and farms\r\n \r\nTo the country you've protected, our flag flying high\r\nJust being the All-American, enjoying your life's script\r\nAnd from your growing years, to San Diego we'll fly.\r\n \r\nTo you we call, come to all that is your homeland\r\nLand that is gentle green, filled with southern style ways, & from\r\nLand, rocky, with crashing waves, calling the boy to come back as a Man. \r\n \r\n \r\nI LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART, ALWAYS, Mom\r\n \r\n\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Spring USA 2007-06-15T12:55:38-06:00 Jody 336 H 278 Texas I began singing as young as I can remember. And as soon as I could, I enrolled with the best music teacher in town. When I started with her, we could immediately tell our political and religious differences.\r\n\r\nThrough her teaching me, however, we have discovered that we have more in common than we could have ever imagined. We are both determined, passionate, and willing to do anything to achieve our goals.\r\n\r\n\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Greenwood United States 2007-06-25T14:29:54-06:00 Isaias 343 G 280 Indiana My hero is my brother, Isaias. Right now, he is studying at the University of Indianapolis, majoring in Sociology and International Relations. In his free time, Isaias is always going to George Washington Community School and the Christamore House, teaching inner-city kids about leadership, and he is always telling them to stay in school and off the streets. He encourages them that if they stay in school, they WILL get into college. By volunteering and getting good grades, they CAN have a future. If they do these things, they can get scholarships and they can achieve the dream that they and their parents have: to go to college, and to have a better life. When Isaias is at home, he tells me to keep up my good grades and start thinking about my future. If Isaias weren’t here by my side, I don’t know if I would have become the person I am now. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Rochester USA 2007-07-07T09:25:21-06:00 Christopher & Andrew 349 L 282 New York My younger son, Andrew, has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. He and his older brother, Christopher, have become so involved in fighting this disease by making others aware and raising funds to donate to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. They are my heroes because they make me so proud of them. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Lubbock USA 2007-08-02T14:47:08-06:00 Don 362 G 285 TX Don G., my hero, was a college instructor when I was a freshman in college. Although he did not know me before I was in his speech class, he learned a bit about my interest in radio broadcasting and offered me an opportunity to start, build and eventually manage our college radio station. He gave me the break in life,; the confidence, support and inspiration that has driven me throughout my career in media. The inspiration he gave me has given me the motivation to 'pass it forward' to those young people whom I have encountered. His action to me has, in turn, affected generations to come. \r\n\r\nTwenty-five years later I was moved to call to thank him. When he answered his phone I said, "I don't know if you remember me..." With that he interrupted, and spoke my name. I was so moved that he remembered me--that freshman student, from so many years ago. It re-inspired me to 'pass it on'.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Huntsville USA 2007-08-04T15:27:39-06:00 Chris 365 H. 286 Alabama Chris was hit head on by a drunk driver at 7 a.m. on Nov. 15, 2005 on his way to work. He was instantly paralyzed from the neck down, was pronounced dead at the scene, revived and pronounced dead in the helicopter on the way to the hospital. Many more times he came very close to dying and had to be revived. Chris underwent 18 surgeries over the next few months. He could not breathe on his own, speak, swallow, feel, or move. Throughout it all he had faith and peace and hope. Chris has never been angry or depressed. He has come a long way in the last year and nine months. He received help from many doctors, therapists, friends, and above all his wife Brenda, who is his 24/7 caretaker and a hero herself. His days are full, with almost everything being done for him. He is able to move his arm and hands some. He now has a voice activated computer and will soon have a voice activated phone. Chris is a spokesman for MADD. He speaks to people who have been convicted of drunk driving. He makes an impression on these folks, just as he does on everyone who has the privilege of meeting him. \r\n\r\nWe go to his house to help Chris, yet we are the ones that are blessed. He is an inspiration and a hero. He appreciates every little thing anyone does for him and never, ever fails to say thank you. He is totally at peace, even after all he's been through and the tough times he still has. I am proud to know and be a friend of this incredible man.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Minden USA 2007-08-31T13:58:10-06:00 Nicole 374 D 287 Nevada She is the most amazing person I have ever met. She is my inspiration, my teacher, my mentor and my friend. She opened my eyes to the world not only because she taught World History, but also because she popped my "small-town-bubble" which closed me off from the world. After meeting her, I finally realized what a wonderful, diverse, and fascinating world we live in. She has inspired me to pursue some sort of degree in History as well as to travel the world one day. Also, she believes in me, which has helped me with my own self confidence issues. She truly is the kindest person I have ever met.\r\n\r\nFurthermore, she is incredibly positive and dedicated. Her motto is, "Carpe Diem," a phrase that I didn't know of or understand until she said it one day. She truly seizes the day by genuinely enjoying life. Last year, she traveled the country with her husband and son, living each day fully, and finding adventure around every corner. Always, she stresses quality over quantity, which means it's better to have a few, valuable, refreshing activities rather then a ton of weighty, time-consuming activities that seem to suck sanity out of people (including myself at times). She is very enlightened and wise, and she has the amazing trait of calmness in chaos. Even when the world around her is going crazy, she can calmly continue her day, taking each task one at a time.\r\n \r\nShe taught me some of her skills during my own times of chaos. She taught me to accept the fact that I'm not perfect and to know when it's OK to cut corners (such as a very stressful time). She taught me to the value of little things in life, such as a shiny penny, a smile, a piece of chocolate, and sticky-tack. She taught me the importance of living life the fullest, or we’ll miss the really valuable stuff, like life experiences (currently unavailable in book form). She taught me how to become more positive by making a “positive book” filled with happy quotes and joyous memories. She taught me the value of friendship by being my friend.\r\n\r\nBasically, her inspiring actions and her “Philosophy Sermons” have been indispensable in my life. I really look up to her, she is my hero. And she has and always will be an inspiration to all she meets.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Sparks United States 2007-09-06T21:11:51-06:00 Frank 375 L 288 Nevada About a year ago, my nephew Trevor and I took my dad, Frank, a World War II veteran, out to see an EA17 World War II Bomber. My dad had served as a tail gunner on a B17. \r\n\r\nWhile we toured the plane, Dad began telling us stories of his experiences. As he spoke, two people nearby drew closer so that they could listen to what he was saying. Soon, the group of two became a small group of many gathered around my father as he reminisced. \r\n\r\nInspired by my dad, two other men began sharing more war stories and talking about the different events that had happened to them during the war. \r\n\r\nThere was a lady standing in the group listening to these veterans talk. She was awestruck at their conversations and turned to me and said, "my goodness, this man is a hero! Do you know this man?" \r\n\r\nI stammered, "well, yea! He's -- He's my dad," and gesturing toward my nephew, Trevor, "and he's his Grandpa." All of a sudden, I was the one standing there awestruck as this woman recognized the heroic service of my father. \r\n\r\nI don't remember a time in my life where I was ever more proud of my dad. It made me realize that my dad is and always has been MY hero.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Buffalo USA 2007-10-16T13:52:27-06:00 John 401 M 291 New York John has worked in the field of vocational rehabilitation for nearly 40 years. During the short amount of time that I have worked under his tutelage, I have found myself constantly in awe of the qualities he exhibits daily. \r\n\r\nJohn is the ultimate social worker, unwavering in his commitment to serving others. He is completely non-judgmental and dedicated to serving individuals who find themselves lucky to be a part of his caseload. John achieves results with a gentle, yet firm manner. He has helped hundreds of individuals, who once faced various physical and mental barriers, find meaning in their daily work and life. \r\n\r\nJohn’s years and years of experience in the field of vocational rehabilitation have yielded hundreds of folks with disabilities, ranging from physical to emotional to behavioral, to lead productive and dignified lives. His honesty is respected and his advice well heeded by his peers. He has made a difference, one person at a time.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Provo USA 2007-10-18T14:05:10-06:00 Jared 404 M 292 Utah My hero is my husband. While stationed in Iraq with the Marines during the 2003 invasion of Baghdad, he left his covered position and ran 400 yards, through enemy and friendly fire, to rescue an Iraqi civilian. Once he reached the man, he had to get both of them back to a safer area, so he picked the man up and carried him the 400 yards back to where his fellow Marines were. On their way back, a bullet grazed my husband’s spine, but he continued on until the he and the Iraqi were safe. This Iraqi citizen, an innocent man, lived to see another day because of the selfless and courageous actions of a heroic U.S. Marine, my husband! Nothing makes me more proud. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Murray United States 2007-10-20T16:16:51-06:00 Opal "Tootie" 406 O 293 Kentucky My grandmother has always been my hero. She is the sweetest person in the world and thinks of everyone before herself. Last Christmas, she suffered a terrible stroke, which took away her ability to both speak and walk. \r\n\r\nWhile in the hospital waiting room after her stroke, we heard so many stories of generosity from her past. Many people told us that if it weren’t for her, they wouldn't be living in a house today. Years ago, she started a program in her town where if kids had to live with their grandparents, my grandmother’s resource center would give them support. Her center was nationally recognized in magazines and news reports. There were so many inspirational stories that my family and I didn't even know about. \r\n\r\nIt’s been about 9 or 10 months since her stroke, and she is now walking with assistance from a special brace on her leg. We feel so fortunate for this breakthrough because the doctor said she would probably never walk again. I am so proud that she is my grandmother, she is amazing!\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Columbia USA 2007-10-26T15:23:58-06:00 Charlie 408 B 294 South Carolina My hero is my friend Charlie, a 15-year-old from South Carolina. To me, there is nothing more inspiring than a young person giving boxes of clothes to the needy, while having barely any himself.\r\n\r\nCharlie has dedicated his life to clothing the poor. He has given almost all of his clothes away, keeping the bare minimum for himself. He has made countless trips to the bus station in Columbia, sometimes on foot, to hand out clothing items to homeless strangers. The clothes he gives out are his personal donation, or items he has worked hard to gather from friends, family and his church. \r\n\r\nI am sharing Charlie’s story because although he gives and gives, he has never received recognition and I want others to hear of and be inspired, like I am, by his generosity. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 San Diego United States 2007-10-29T15:23:10-06:00 Christiane 411 D 295 California My roommate Christy recently gave up her high-paying position to dedicate her time to care for an 8-year-old boy with Autism. He is an adorable boy with a heart of gold, but definitely a challenge at times! Christy has nothing but patience with him and because of her efforts he has made amazing advances socially as well as developmentally. Christy has constantly put his needs before her own...Beginning with her decision to leave her job to make time for his care. I think the most positive effect to come from her time with him is the fabulous friends that he has been able to make through this process! 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Deerfield USA 2007-11-03T06:30:26-06:00 George 416 H 296 Illinois \r\nMy Dad has been an English teacher for the past 50 years; he now mentors young teachers. I can't tell you how many times former students of his have told me that he was the greatest teacher they ever had.\r\n\r\nGrowing up, my mother didn’t work and there were nine kids in our family, so we certainly did not live in luxury. Despite those circumstances, however, he never let us feel like we needed more than we had.\r\n\r\nAs he approaches his 81st birthday, he still volunteers hours each week to educating and supporting both children and teachers. As a result of his continued dedication, his impact will last for many years into the future. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Churchville USA 2007-11-06T10:50:47-07:00 David 419 N 297 New York My grandfather, David, died in 1999; he lived only half a mile up the road from where I grew up in upstate New York. Every day, he would walk down to our house to bring my dad the newspaper. Along with the paper he would bring a small bag of treats for my two brothers and me. Sometimes it was candy, and sometimes it was pretzels or crackers. \r\n\r\nWestern NY is infamous for having severe winter weather; rain, sleet, or even 3-feet of snow. Even when he was 81, he still walked the half-mile every single day. As a child, I looked forward to the daily treats, but now that I’m older, I realize that he braved the harsh weather each day just to see us smile; I now appreciate that more than anything.\r\n\r\n My grandfather touched many lives, evidenced by the more than 1,500 people at his wake. A woman who had been confined to a hospital bed for 5 years came the wake with an aid to pay her respect. She told me that my grandfather would visit her twice a week at her home; to read to her, play bridge, or just converse. For 5 years he would visit twice a week--without fail. She rarely had other visitors. She told me that my grandfather was her only friend. But, she wasn't the only person to share her story with me. Others came throughout the two-day wake and told me how my grandfather touched their lives, too. Even hitchhiker who my grandfather had picked up two years before told me of my grandfather’s impact in his life; he was homeless in a New York winter and my grandfather gave him a place to stay and a warm meal. The man told me that no one had ever been so nice to him. He has since found a job working in a supermarket and earns enough to afford his own apartment. I was inspired, but not surprised to hear all of the touching stories.\r\n\r\nThe two-day wake really opened my eyes to my grandfather's selflessness. I have since tried to model my own life after his. He would help anyone, in any way he could. Whether it was buying groceries for an elderly woman, or bringing treats for his grandkids--wherever he went, smiles followed. My grandfather is far more than just my hero; he is my inspiration.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 San Antonio United States 2007-12-07T04:21:08-07:00 Taylor 433 H 299 Texas This is a story about a little 7-year-old girl named Taylor. Though Taylor has had her own challenges growing up, these have not distracted her from pursuing her own vision to make a difference. Taylor has a vision give to others who have nothing.\r\n\r\nTaylor saves cans for recycling and has been able to donate her money earned to support children in Honduras, a family in Rwanda, Toys for Tots and two local children with autism. \r\n\r\nHer goal for this year is to raise more money through can collection and recycling to donate to an orphanage in Africa. \r\n\r\nI truly believe that there is no age limit for a person to be a hero and this little girl, Taylor, proves that. Taylor is a true hero. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Horseheads United States 2007-12-19T03:07:41-07:00 Victoria 443 W 300 New York There is a girl at my school named Victoria and she has Lyme Disease, which forces her to use a wheelchair most of the time. One day a while back, I heard Victoria talking to one of her teachers and through her conversation I realized that she is the kindest and most courageous person I’ve ever heard about. \r\n\r\nVictoria’s smile could light up a room and her kindness goes a long way. After meeting me only once, she now says “hi” to me every day in the hall. On a rainy day, I saw her sitting in the lunchroom when some kids returning from band ran up and needed the door to be opened. Out of that whole cafeteria of able-bodied kids, she was the only person who took the time to open the door for them. A few days later, I saw her helping a girl pick up her things that she had dropped. I’ve seen her demonstrate kindness to others on many occasions. \r\n\r\nNow, she has been out of school for a few weeks and I don't know where she disappeared to, but I hope she's ok. Regardless, she has changed me forever and showed me that little acts of kindness can go a long way. This girl has been through so much and has really been hit hard with this disease, yet she continues to work through it all and keep so positive. \r\n\r\nIf I could be half of the person that she is, I would be so happy.\r\n\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 New Braunfels USA 2007-12-21T04:12:16-07:00 Cliff & Shannon 447 F 303 Texas Cliff and Shannon have adopted three children, all siblings, from a troubled home. These children are all under the age of five and the oldest has autism. Cliff and Shannon love these children unconditionally and are raising them in an environment of security, love and understanding. \r\n\r\nWithout much money or high-paying jobs, Cliff and Shannon struggle mightily to provide for these children but they always love them completely. They constantly sacrifice for these children. \r\n\r\nCliff and Shannon do not ask for help or sympathy. They took these children in fully understanding how their lives would be changed forever. \r\n\r\nNow, thanks to Cliff and Shannon, Daniel, AJ and Mia have a chance to thrive and be happy. They are healthy children wrapped in a warm cocoon of love. I only wish that I had a few of the wonderful qualities that make Cliff and Shannon such selfless, loving people. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Portland USA 2007-12-21T17:13:56-07:00 Gwen 450 W 304 Oregon Mrs. W often took care of my twin sister and me. She lived across the street and must have noticed that we had a difficult family life. She was patient, kind, and treated us as if we were her own children. She taught me how to create a good family life, how to be loving mothers, and how to help others. \r\n\r\nDuring my teen years, my family moved away and we lost touch with Mrs. W. I think about her often and still have yet to formally thank her for all she gave to us. Thank you so very much Mrs. W., I work every day to pass on what you taught me.\r\n\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Las Vegas USA 2007-12-22T16:28:03-07:00 Jennifer 451 M 305 Nevada Jennifer started volunteering with AIDS service organiztions (ASO's) over 10 years ago. She has given her adult life to bettering the lives of those infected with or affected by AIDS. She is now the CEO of Aid for AIDS of Nevada, and is a hero to those in this city who need a hand up, not a hand out. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Ogden USA 2007-12-30T23:49:59-07:00 Ben 454 F 306 Utah Ben was my hero as he fought in WW2, a pilot in the Pacific Theater. Ben homesteaded in Wyoming and later built up several thriving businesses in Utah, along with his wife, Rita. Rita and Ben raised eight children who are all successful. Together they have helped many people throughout the years, both financially and spiritually. \r\n\r\nPerhaps the greatest challenge and chance for heroism has come in their late eighties, as Rita has Alzheimer's. Ben lovingly and faithfully cares for Rita in their home. They will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary this May and Ben never complains, only says how much he loves Rita. Five of their grown daughters live within 20 miles and share the responsibility of coming each day to help with housekeeping and bathing. \r\n\r\nMay we all be as positive as Ben with our challenges in life and inspire those around us to do likewise.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Largo USA 2008-01-06T18:14:56-07:00 Titus 464 C 308 Florida My husband Titus is my hero and my inspiration. He had a tumultuous childhood, and after becoming homeless at 17, went on to graduate high school and become successful in every job he holds. \r\n\r\nTitus is now in school to become a firefighter/paramedic. He hopes to soon have the knowledge that will enable him to save lives other than his own. In addition, he knows this career will help him create a foundation on which we can build a stable future for both our future children and ourselves. \r\n\r\nHis love, selflessness and ability to understand others continues to amaze me, and I grow more and more in love with him each day.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Monroe USA 2008-01-16T04:38:06-07:00 Paul 469 B 309 NJ My hero is my Dad! I have always thought of him as such just because he is my Father. I admire him for living his life according to his own hopes and aspirations. At 75 years of age, he still embodies all the compassion and drive that he has possessed his entire life. \r\n\r\nPerhaps because I myself have matured I can see many of these traits more clearly now. My Dad is a believer in all that is good. We playfully call him our 'boy scout' as he gives willingly of his time, his money, his knowledge, and his love. “No” is not a word in his vocabulary. \r\n\r\nMaybe he learned to encompass these admirable traits as the youngest of four children. Maybe he learned to value these things as a young man drafted and sent overseas to fight in the Korean War. Or maybe it was when he returned home and met his bride of 51 years!! He may even have developed this capability in his years as a successful business owner. No matter where or how he has earned his wisdom, he remains my hero. \r\n\r\nI look up to my dad and pray that my own son can someday be half the man that my dad is.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Eagan USA 2008-01-17T04:43:17-07:00 Sona 471 M 310 MN In 1997, Sona’s dear friends had an extremely premature baby. Sona asked how she could help, and they asked her to help keep friends and family informed. Sona turned to her background in IT and web design and created a private, personal website for the family. The website kept everyone up-to-date, and allowed people to share their love, encouragement and support to the family facing this serious medical situation. Sadly, their baby lived just nine days. The parents, family and friends were so moved by their experience with this single website, however, that they supported and encouraged Sona to provide that same service to other families in need.\r\n\r\nThe powerful connections from that first experience led Sona to found CaringBridge, a non-profit organization that provides private, personalized websites to families facing serious medical conditions. For the first three years, Sona ran the organization out of her house. Now, over ten years later, CaringBridge is the first and largest service of its kind “dedicated to connecting families and friends to share information, love and support when facing a serious medical condition.” \r\n\r\nSona was and is adamant that the service remains free to families, so that the focus remains on simplifying communication and connecting families struggling with a serious health condition. \r\n\r\nSona has grown this business to serve millions of families each year. On top of her growing efforts in the non-profit world, Sona and her husband have raised three sons. Still, her passion for helping families in need stay connected and feel cared for and loved, is one that continues to grow. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Garden City USA 2008-01-24T13:25:14-07:00 Dayna 481 S 311 NY Dayna was born with a rare disease called schizencephaly. This disease has restricted her from walking and talking since she was a baby. Dayna is now 16 and has surpassed her disability beyond anyone's imagination. Her perseverance and character have inspired me as a leader in my school community. For Dayna, there are no limits or boundaries that she can't cross. She has participated in school plays and is very involved in a high school leadership group. In this group, Dayna not only teaches tolerance and hope, she represents it. Even though she cannot talk, she constantly has a voice in her surrounding community. She is a true inspiration to her peers, the school faculty, and members of the community. There is absolutely nothing this young woman wouldn't do for me, her other friends, or anyone who asked for her help. Dayna is my hero because she represents strength and shows me that dreams do come true. \r\n\r\nMany people have never met their hero in person. How lucky am I, for my hero is my best friend!\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-01-29T06:18:07-07:00 Carly and Molly 486 314 Pennsylvania Carly and Molly are not your ordinary sisters. Though they are just 13 and 15 they founded Hives for Lives, a non-profit organization that sells honey and honey products, and donates all profits to the American Cancer Society. Carly and Molly, who grew up helping with their grandparents' beekeeping hobby, started Hives for Lives in 2004, as a way to honor their grandfather, who died that year of cancer. Determined to turn their grief into something positive, the sisters decided to harvest the honey from their family's bee hives, and sell it to raise money for cancer research. The girls added beeswax candles and lip balm to their product line, created a web site, and came up with a slogan – “Bee the cure we seek.” Assisted by a team of their peers (volunteer Bee Helpers), the girls harvest, filter, and jar the honey; mold the beeswax into honey bear candles and lip balms; and package and ship their products all over the country. When demand outgrew the capacity of their family's hives, the girls secured additional honey from other honey producers and honey donations from 4H clubs and other similar partners. Though it started with just two girls, Hives for Lives has truly become a community project. “It feels so good to accomplish your goals and help change the world in some way,” says Carly.\r\n\r\nThis story courtesy of www.barronprize.org 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Stockdale USA 2008-01-31T07:14:11-07:00 Greg 488 L 316 TX My hero is my husband Greg. My husband works long, hard hours on the night shift just to give our sons and me a better life. He is a Certified Nursing Assistant at a local hospital and he goes above and beyond his job requirements to make sure that his patients are comfortable, happy, that they feel secure and safe, and he is never too busy to sit and talk with them or lift their spirits. He never calls off of work; he always says to me "No, my co-workers and patients are counting on me." \r\n\r\nHe never fails to come home and greet my sons and me with a smile and kisses. He is never too tired or busy to rub my back, read the boys a story, or to do a favor for someone else. Whenever I get down about money or the car not working right, he always hugs me and says, "Don't worry. Together, we can make it through anything!"\r\n\r\nMy husband is one of the best people I know and I want to be just like him!\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-02-04T10:30:48-07:00 Ana Cristina G.V. 491 D. 317 California Sometimes she can't keep commitments and sometimes she's not dependable...She's not organized. She is a woman, who isn't strong...And yet she is. She is Kind--loving to all. She is inspirational. She is wonderful. She is book smart. She is classy ...She is grace. She is thoughtful. She is a single mother…Someone once said, "Be hope walking," and Cristina (Ana, Tina, Dorothy, mi reina, my wife...all those names she's gone by in her lifetime...) embodies hope. She is hope walking...And living. She inspires me. She thinks for all. She is my hero.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Madison USA 2008-02-05T04:03:21-07:00 Erin 492 K 318 Mississippi Erin is the reigning ‘Outstanding Teen Madison County,’ and she is truly outstanding. Erin's platform issue is ‘Raising Teen Awareness Against Girls Bullying Girls.’ It is her goal to educate teens and parents of the horrors of girl bullies. She has a forum where girls and parents can discuss their issues and she is starting a support group. She always defends the underdog and has a kind, compassionate heart. She is my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Orlando U.S.A. 2008-02-05T04:07:56-07:00 Chris 493 W 319 Florida My hero is not somebody who is known by many people. He is a schoolteacher with a goal to be an inspiration to his students, and to support them when nothing else makes sense. \r\n\r\nAlthough I didn’t have him as my teacher, when I came to him for help with my troubles, he gladly opened his arms to me. I think that he is an inspiration and a hero for teens of all backgrounds. \r\n\r\nI have never met another person who showed me as much kindness as he did. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Smalltown USA 2008-02-19T06:07:25-07:00 Unknown 504 Hero 320 Tennessee In 1982, I was twenty-two years old and driving by myself from Texas to Virginia; it was summer and my 12-year-old car was starting to overheat. In Tennessee, the temperature indicator was buried in the red zone...I knew I was in trouble. Luckily, I was on the top of a hill and drifted/rolled down into a small village down from the exit off route 81. I stopped there and thought, "wow, what am I going to do now?" It was 11 pm, dark, and I was worried. \r\n\r\nRight when I was starting to panic, a pickup truck pulled up and the driver asked what the problem was. I told him what had happened and he said, "hop in, my brother owns a parts store. All you need is a new radiator cap. I'll get him to open the store for you". \r\n\r\nI argued, "no, its too late, he's probably sleeping and I don't want to wake him up for a stranger in need of a car part." \r\n\r\nThe man said, "come on, he won't mind." His brother, who had been sleeping, immediately hopped out of bed, got in the truck with us, opened the store, and found the part for me. He actually GAVE it to me, wouldn't accept payment, and sent me back to my car with his brother. \r\n\r\nI tried to pay them for their help and they just said, "that's OK--glad we could help! Maybe you can help someone else someday.” I'll never forget those words. These two men are "everyday heroes."\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Granite Falls USA 2008-02-19T16:31:52-07:00 Calvin 505 S 321 NC Calvin is one of my co-workers and he has arthritis. What impresses me most, however, is that Calvin does not let his arthritis prevent him from doing what he loves. He’s always playing with his kids or supporting them in their endeavors. Although he works a normal job with average pay, he is determined to never let his kids or his wife down.\r\n\r\nCalvin is also a scoutmaster for a local Boy Scout troop and continues to be the best leader even during an arthritis flare-up. As a scoutmaster he never leaves any boy behind; he would do anything for the boys even though they only meet once or twice a week. He treats each boy as his own; even if it is his first time meeting them. He is the picture of a leader. He provides for the boys in his scout group in any way they need him. \r\n\r\nFor his role as a father, a husband and a scoutmaster, he has my respect as well as the respect of many others; that is why he is my hero.\r\n\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Seattle USA 2008-02-21T09:09:51-07:00 Rashmi 506 K. 322 Washington My daughter is an ESL teacher. She teaches adult refugees who have never spoken English in their lives. She narrated me this one instance which brought tears of joy to my eyes. \r\n\r\nThis is what she told me...this is her story in her own words.\r\n\r\n"About a year ago, I walked into my classroom to prepare for my lesson only to find one of my students already there, 30 minutes early. My student, Hawa, a Somali refugee, looked excited. She reached into the folds of her hijab and took out a folded piece of paper. On it were sentences written with a careful, painstaking precision; it was her handwriting. \r\n\r\nShe read me her note, speaking slowly and clearly: "Teacher, today I take the bus. Now I go to the supermarket for the food and my son stay home. He is happy. He help me with my homework. Now I read myself, I can do it." She handed me the note with a big smile. I thanked her and congratulated her on her progress, pointing out her wonderful use of some of our class vocabulary words from the past week in her note. On the inside, I was choked up and tried not to let it show. Hawa, like so many of my students at the Refugee Women's Alliance, arrived in the US without being able to read or write in any language, and had never spoken English."\r\n\r\nI too was choked up when she told me this story. She still continues to teach English to those who come to this country with a dream to survive, raise children and to give them a better life. I feel my daughter is my hero!!!\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Glen Dale US 2008-02-22T05:09:34-07:00 Camryn 508 B 323 WV Camryn is 6-years-old and was impacted by her brother Cooper’s amputation of both feet at 23 months old. She wanted to help children like Cooper. Camryn decided to draw a picture, which was later put on a t-shirt and sold to profit Shriner's Hospitals for Children. Cooper was treated at one of these hospitals for free. Camryn raised over $10,000.00 with her t-shirt sales. I believe this is quite an amazing story for a 6-year-old child and quite an inspiration for everyone. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Linden USA 2008-04-07T05:14:25-06:00 Monica 552 F. 327 Tennessee My hero is my mom. She had me when she was in her teenage years and though she could have had a much easier life if she had given me up, she chose to keep me. She was faced with the difficult issues of being a single parent while finishing high school and college. She is now a very successful registered nurse and assistant manager of a bone marrow transplant center. I have lived an excellent life and it is all thanks to her. She truly is my best friend and has given me everything I have ever needed. If I wanted or needed something she went without just so she could provide it for me. She would do anything for me and I know that. My mom believes in me and supports me, encouraging me to do whatever I dream of in life. She is always willing to help. This is why my mom is my hero and always will be. I love you mom. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Eastport USA 2008-04-10T14:56:52-06:00 Thomas 555 T. 329 New York My dad has been working for an agency that cares for a large portion of Long Island's mentally retarded community since 1980. When he started out he worked as a direct care counselor in the one and only group home the agency had. He lived next to the group home, cooked dinners, bathed those who could not bathe themselves, and helped with many other day to day tasks. He also took the people that lived in the home to their doctors' appointments and to fun activities such as the movies. Today the agency has and offers about 47 group homes, in-home care, a nursing home, day programs, and much more. Since his days as a direct care counselor, he has done all he can to make the agency no less than the kind of place that he would want his child to be at. \r\n\r\nCurrently, my dad is the Director of Programs and no longer works directly with the participants. He does, however, make major decisions that he believes would be in the best interest of all involved. This is not always easy, as it often means making life-changing decisions for another person. My dad has always loved his job, but he has made many sacrifices. He gets calls in the middle of the night when people are sick; he attends more funerals than anyone I know; he does enough paper work to make anyone crazy; travels long distances for meetings; and took many trips to Florida throughout the years to establish homes there. \r\n\r\nMost importantly he never complains, even when he is under a lot of stress. I do not know how he does it. When I ask him how he keeps himself together, he says that every job has its rough times, but it is the happiness he creates that keeps him going. My dad is strong, persistent, goal oriented, and patient. He is highly respected for his extreme dedication to what he knows is right. My dad is my hero because he not only does what is best for me, but he also does the best he can to provide outstanding care for those who struggle to care for themselves. \r\n\r\nMy father’s attitude has been nothing but an amazing inspiration to me. I strive to make a difference in the world the way my dad has. His ever positive, happy-go-lucky, hard-working, and logical attitude has helped innumerable families in more ways than he could ever know. Many of the families he serves probably do not fully understand the extreme pressure he endures for the well-being of their loved ones. To my dad that is not a big deal. He does not do any of it for the recognition. He genuinely loves his job, loves and respects the population he works for, and can take all the troubles because he knows those good times will come. He has a special place in the hearts of many families, and one of the most special places in mine. I have learned more from my father than I could ever explain, and I look at him as my motivating force, my friend, my advisor, and my guardian. For these and other innumerable reasons my dad is not only my hero, but a super hero of our very special community here on Long Island and elsewhere.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 College Station USA 2008-04-13T06:48:44-06:00 Janice 558 A. 332 Texas Mrs. Attaway teaches pre-algebra and algebra at a local middle school in my town and has taught thousands of students. Sure, she teaches the material that is required by law and makes sure that her students understand that material, but she does so much more than that. First of all, hardly anyone understands math so she teaches the material in a different way, understandable to every child. If they still don't get it, she will go all out to make sure that they truly understand and absorb the material and are able to pass the next test by providing extra tutorial sessions, sometimes even at night if necessary. Second, she is one of three National Junior Honor Society Sponsors. Not only does she help the kids in the organization to help others and build character, but she does it herself. She doesn’t just teach because it’s her job. With Mrs. Attaway, helping students and others succeed is her daily life. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Federal Way USA 2008-04-24T04:29:41-06:00 Merlin 565 E. 333 Washington Prior to passing away in October 2007, Merlin dedicated his life to teaching, including spending 43 years as the Director of a week-long summer camp that taught leadership to high school student body leaders from all over Washington State. For 43 years, each summer Merlin left his family for one week because of his unwavering belief that our high school student body leaders will be the leaders of tomorrow and that we can impart on them valuable skills they WILL use as adults as they lead us into the future. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Mesa USA 2008-04-28T05:35:23-06:00 My Mother 568 335 Arizona My mother is my hero. She saved me from dying when I was 8 years old. She pushed me out of the way of a speeding car and died saving me. She was only 28 years old. Out of respect and honor for my mom I went to college and got my masters degree in real estate. Now I'm 28 years old, and I feel the need to pass on my story to children who may have lost their mothers in an accident to tell them they can still do something with their life, even though it is hard now. Stay in school—I know how hard it is but don’t ever give up!! 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Lake Park USA 2008-04-29T09:07:47-06:00 Kelsie 570 B. 336 Georgia I was younger than her and I thought I could swim (but I really couldn't). I jumped in the lake behind my house and I was starting to drown. She suddenly jumped in the water to save me and she was only 5 and I was 4. That is why she is my hero—she saved my life without even thinking about it. Today she is in fifth grade and I am in fourth. She makes straight A's and she is in the gifted class. She is also in the junior beta club. She is my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Pasadena USA 2008-05-05T05:58:38-06:00 Scott 573 E. 338 California Scott truly is "passing it on." He volunteers in prisons, providing workshops for prisoners ready to be released back into society. He has given 15,000 pairs of glasses to needy children and is doing a huge 7,000 person event in Utah, in which the proceeds will be distributed to the local churches to provide food and clothing to the needy. He is inspiring. Because of his influence, I am now volunteering and plan to help children learn how to read. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-05-07T16:16:25-06:00 Matt 574 B. 339 Massachusetts Matt was an athlete, brother, friend, son, student, an all around great person, and my boyfriend whom I was in love with. He had earned his varsity letter in 4 different sports. Although he was an athlete, he was kind to anyone and everyone. When my boyfriend Matt passed away, one comment left on the memorial wall at my high school was "Matt was the reason I came to school everyday. He said hi to me regardless of my popularity status." Not only does this say something about the person Matt was, but it inspired me to become more like him. I look at his life, and I feel like he taught me so much, he taught me how to be a better person. Rest in peace, Matt B. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 United States 2008-05-13T16:03:24-06:00 Kelly 577 L. 341 Illinois My mom is my hero. Why? Because she has taught me all my life lessons. She has been through so much in these past few months, but although she was in a tough situation, she always made sure my siblings and I were okay. She always put herself last and let everyone else come first. She cares about people, and she never gives up. She pushes you to the best of your ability. She knows when you will give up and even though you want to, she pushes you to strive at your best! My mom is a person who commits to everything she does and she is a great role model for people, inspiring others not to give up! 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Woodbridge USA 2008-05-22T07:54:12-06:00 Zurriane 584 B. 342 Virginia Zurriane has volunteered his time as a Martial Arts instructor for many years to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. For the past nine years he has also volunteered his time as a defense instructor for women and a resisting aggression defense instructor for children. He is also my martial arts instructor and has helped me and many other young people to improve our lives and futures. He is my hero. He owns the San Yama Bushi & Combination GoJu School of Self Defense in northern Virginia. We can talk with him about many things. His instruction, advice, and comments have been amazing and over the years he has given us a lot. He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps for twenty-two years. He has done so many other positive things in his life. He is a great man, person, and role model. He is a real person and real hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-05-28T09:19:33-06:00 Ashley 591 343 Colorado Ashley is my hero. She was shocked and moved by the extreme poverty she saw during a trip to Africa when she was eleven years old. Determined to help the African people, Ashley pursued numerous avenues but found only dead ends and frustration. Five years later, she has raised the money, completed the paperwork, and recruited the board members necessary to form her own non-profit group. AfricAid raises money to provide scholarships for girls in Tanzania to attend a local school. Ashley's group also collects much-needed school supplies to send to schools across Africa. “I am excited to have finally found a way to help African people,” says Ashley. “They have inspired me and shown me the persevering, unbreakable nature of the human spirit.”\r\n\r\nThis story courtesy of www.barronprize.org 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Denver USA 2008-05-28T09:22:06-06:00 Estephania and Esperanza 592 344 Colorado These sisters are my heroes because they created Project Literacy, a neighborhood tutoring program where middle school students are helping elementary age kids with reading. After learning that their own middle school, ranked nearly last in Denver and the state in all areas on the CSAP (standardized test), the girls wanted to help. With the support of the non-profit group YouthBiz, Estephania and Esperanza conceived of their tutoring program, wrote a grant, and were awarded $5,000 for Project Literacy. The girls then created program brochures, met with teachers and principals, and recruited tutors. Dozens of elementary school kids enrolled in the program have made measurable progress in reading. “It feels so good to help others and watch them grow,” says Esperanza. Her sister adds, “Given the chance, we can do anything, even if we're ‘just’ kids.”\r\n\r\nThis story is courtesy of www.barronprize.org \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-05-28T09:24:37-06:00 Michaella 594 346 Colorado Michaella is my hero. When she was just 14, Michaella helped create the Exceptional Rodeo for children with disabilities. She and her local 4-H Club raised over $2,000 to fund the rodeo, which included “bucking” broncos (made of hay and barrels), calf roping, and stick horse barrel racing. As a result of Michaella's accomplishments, thirty-five local children with physical and developmental disabilities were able to experience the thrill of rodeo. “Children can come out of the darkness with just one special thing you do for them,” explains Michaella. “Just that one thing can change that person's life forever.” Additionally, Michaella has created the Foal Adoption Program, placing unwanted horses with local 4-H kids.\r\n\r\nThis story courtesy of www.barronprize.org 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-05-28T09:27:52-06:00 Michael 596 348 Colorado At just 14 years old, Michael organized a bowl-a-thon that raised over $9,000 to help a 13-year-old burn victim in his community. After hearing the story on the local news, Michael, a veteran fundraiser who has raised over $120,000 for various causes, decided he had to help offset the family’s medical expenses. Michael visited each homeroom in his middle school, encouraging his peers to make a difference in someone else's life by participating in the bowl-a-thon. More than 80 students showed up to help raise the funds that made a tremendous difference to the family, who did not have medical insurance. Michael says of his fundraising efforts, “I like showing others that everyone can make a difference, no matter who you are, how old you are, or even what you look like.”\r\n\r\nThis story courtesy of www.barronprize.org\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Denver USA 2008-05-28T09:28:58-06:00 Julia 597 349 Colorado Julia is my hero—she organized Showers to Go!, a program that provides personal care products for needy community members. Julia learned at school that personal hygiene is one of many challenges faced by the homeless. The next day, Julia took the contents of her piggy bank to her teacher, asking that she give the money to a homeless person in need. Instead, her teacher challenged Julia to think of ways she could help more than one person. Showers to Go! was born. Julia rallied her classmates to donate shampoo, soap, and other personal care products to fill over 80 cloth bags she and her friends sewed. Migrant workers in a nearby community benefited from Julia's inspiration. “I learned that even a twelve-year-old can make a difference in the community and improve people's lives,” says Julia.\r\n\r\nThis story courtesy of www.barronprize.org\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-05-28T09:29:47-06:00 Mark 598 350 Colorado Mark is my hero. He organized a jump rope skip-a-thon to raise money for Skylar Stanley, a baby from nearby Fort Morgan in need of a heart transplant. Skylar's need hit close to home: Mark's grandmother had died waiting for a liver transplant and his mother was in need of a kidney transplant. Mark organized “Skipping for Skylar,” where local kids collected pledges and then jumped rope at the school gym on a Saturday morning. Mark publicized his event, set up a bank account for donations, and convinced local businesses to donate refreshments and prizes. Mark raised $1,100 for Skylar, who received her transplant and is now a healthy toddler. “I did this project because in my heart, I felt it was the right thing to do,” says Mark.\r\n\r\nThis story courtesy of www.barronprize.org\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-05-28T09:30:28-06:00 Adam 599 351 Colorado I don’t even know how many people Adam has helped since he started practicing magic tricks. Adam incorporates his message of breast cancer awareness into the dynamic magic shows he performs, free of charge, for schoolchildren and teachers in Denver. In the seven years since Adam learned his first magic trick, two of his aunts have survived hard-fought battles with breast cancer. Inspired by them, Adam is committed to teaching his audiences about cancer and the benefits of early detection. His shows and message have inspired more than a few teachers to schedule mammograms or begin monthly self exams. “I have learned that by helping other people, you feel better about yourself,” says Adam.\r\n\r\nThis story courtesy of www.barronprize.org\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Springfield USA 2008-05-28T18:37:25-06:00 Sarah 601 H. 353 Ohio Sarah is my aunt and she is my hero. Sarah is my hero because she is very giving and loving person. When I was 2 or 3 she took me in because my mother could not raise me. My whole family could have gone to a foster home but she took all of us in. She raised me, my 5 sisters and 2 brothers as her own. She now has a child of her own and is a single mother for my two sisters, my cousin, and me. She has done a lot for my family and I just hope someday I can do the same for her. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Aurora USA 2008-06-04T15:07:11-06:00 Lisa 616 H. 356 Illinois My hero is the most passionate person I have ever met. She is the embodiment of "Do what you love, love what you do." She is a person of greatness...someone I can only hope to be like someday. Lisa is a record holding high school and college athlete and coach. Her story lies in her unbelievable selflessness and compassion. Her best friend in the world battled anorexia and Lisa held her hand all the way through her illness until the day her friend took her own life. Crippled with grief, she put her feelings aside and continued her work as an eating disorder specialist. She has been in the field for nearly a decade and that is how we met. I had given up. Giving up is not in Lisa’s vocabulary. Lisa's uncanny intuition and ability to get into the minds of those deeply hurting is why she was able to help me. She is the most genuinely heartfelt person alive. The death of her best friend could have broken her...but instead of hiding in grief, she uses that death to save others. Lisa deserves all of the recognition in the world. Today Lisa left her long time position at a mental health hospital to grow her own practice which will include using her horse in the experiential therapies that she is known for and is an avenue that she has really pioneered. She is a beautiful, amazing person. I love you Lis, my greatest hero, my earth angel. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 San Diego USA 2008-06-05T15:46:53-06:00 Will 619 M. 357 California More than anything else, Will gives me hope. He looks for the good and upholds it in others. He serves, he walks his talk. He uplifts people. He takes meaningful action to make the world and the people in it better. He's real and speaks the truth. He has character. He's a good man. He provides meaningful, heart-full information to his readers. He loves his wife and family. He's living his vision, a legacy of love. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Knoxville USA 2008-06-05T16:08:26-06:00 Jim 621 R. 358 Tennessee Jim coached a TOPSoccer for kids with special needs. He also started the Prom For The Stars, an annual dance for young adults with disabilities.\r\n\r\nThe Saturday soccer games included snacks and a banquet at the end of the year with special trophies. He found sponsors to help with the Prom and many of the dresses and tuxedos for the young women and men were donated by individuals and businesses in the area. The Prom had grown so large it had to be held at a downtown exhibition ballroom and for many of the people involved it is the highlight of their year.\r\n\r\nJim passed away early in May of a heart attack. He will be forever remembered and loved.\r\n\r\nWhen asked why he did what he did, he replied simply, "It needed to be done." Jim lived the FBL mission.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Rancho Cucamonga USA 2008-06-06T09:41:23-06:00 Henry 622 M. 359 California My hero is a man named Henry. He has always been the one I can run to in times of need. He has shown me that a father is someone who you can trust and rely on, not necessarily one who helped create you. My mom died unexpectedly when I barely turned 13, and my biological dad has never really been in the picture. So Henry became like a father to me, and is someone I have always been able to talk to. My love for him grew stronger every time I spoke with him and now he is the only one whom I can trust with life. I’m proud to call him my father, because without him, I wouldn’t be the girl I am today. He has taught me to never give up! 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Minneapolis USA 2008-06-11T08:59:43-06:00 Cameron 626 A. 360 Minnesota My son Cameron, now 13, was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer when he was 11. He has transformed his experience into an opportunity to help others. He is developing a magazine called Brain Candy! as a way to bridge young people living with brain cancer. \r\n\r\nHe writes a weekly blog and does regular video blogs on YouTube. He has touched so many people. He is not only a hero to me, his papa, a cancer survivor myself, but to countless others all over the world. Thanks for the opportunity to acknowledge this amazing person. I am grateful for having had the honor of walking this journey with him.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Pendleton USA 2008-06-12T11:16:20-06:00 Marc 628 M. 361 Oregon When I reflect on the word “hero” I think of my father, Marc. For over 30 years my dad has been an ordained minister serving as a senior pastor in several churches. \r\n \r\nHe has taught me about compassion and the need to serve others before myself. In everything that he does, he strives to be a blessing in others’ lives. Each Sunday, he greets every church member and visitor with a big hug and a smile. This practice is not limited to Sundays only. Each person he crosses paths with, he greets with a big smile and a “howdy”. His gestures of kindness are completely genuine and heartfelt. His occupation is far from work for him. He sees everyday as an opportunity to bring happiness to the lives of others. My dad is on call 24/7 and will never leave someone in need. He has sacrificed much in order to be a servant of those in his community.\r\n\r\nThrough tours that he leads all over the world, he teaches people about acceptance, peace, and staying true to your convictions. I am amazed at the reach that my dad’s vision and caring has (making a difference in the lives of people worldwide). \r\n\r\nIt is impossible for me to count the number of lives that my dad has touched. I can tell you, however, that he is a cornerstone for many and a friend to all. Because of the way he has lived his life, I am inspired to make changes in our world. I want to know that my life will have such a powerful impact on my community and world, as his has. While I don’t have all of the words to tell you what a difference he makes each day, I hope that this will give you a glimpse as to why he is a hero to me. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Canada 2008-06-13T18:35:42-06:00 Bob 630 B. 362 As a young boy, I was quite lonely. Although I had a wonderful mother and a great 'big' sister, I didn't have a dad. My true father died when I was two.\r\n\r\nHowever, a wonderful person came into my life when I was about 5 or 6. He was a young guy of about 19 and he worked in the hardware store where my mother worked. \r\n\r\nBob befriended me and took me out into the hills of north Calgary where he taught me to appreciate nature. He also helped me learn how to fish and hunt small animals. He was the inspiration that led me to enjoy a life focusing on the outdoors and nature. He was my absolute hero and, even after he left Calgary to pursue a variety of careers, he sent me letters that kindled my appreciation and desire for adventure and the outdoors.\r\n\r\nWhere he is now, I have no idea but I hope that someday I will find him and be able to talk about life with him. \r\n\r\nHe was a most wonderful, loving hero to a very lonely little boy. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Hutchinson USA 2008-06-26T04:28:23-06:00 Stanley 639 M. 365 KS Four days a week in Hutchinson, Kansas a miracle happens: 200-300 people eat a hot meal. The miracle worker is an unassuming woman named Stanley M. who operates the Christian Soup Ministry. For close to 20 years she’s never missed a scheduled day, never run out of food, never turned anyone away…and never accepted so much as a penny of government assistance.\r\n\r\nSome days there’s no group scheduled to cook (community groups typically provide meals for about 15 days each month). Some days there’s not enough food in the pantry to prepare a meal in the needed quantities. Those are the days when the miracles happen. A group of cross country cyclists rides up and offers to help. A couple over-orders from their wedding reception and makes a donation. A grocery donates 500 pounds of fresh produce that would otherwise be thrown away.\r\n\r\nRegardless of the thorny conditions she knows exist from the night before, Stanley leaves her house and shows up at the appointed time, believing…knowing that the Lord will provide. Faith is her value—and she does pass it on. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-06-26T05:03:53-06:00 Halbert 644 T. 370 What started as a job offer in the medical examiner/coroner’s office turned into a life changing event for a single mother of four children.\r\n\r\nDr. T. was a leading national pathologist who worked on many notorious forensic cases with the likes of Henry Lu and Michael Boden. But what he was most was a very compassionate human being. The father of three children, one who had a severe disability, and one whom he adopted after meeting him sitting on a curb one day outside a store. This was just one of the many acts of compassion I had come to learn.\r\n\r\nDr. T. knew that I was going through a difficult time, as were my four children. The part-time job he offered to supplement my income turned into funding for tuition for me to complete my education, sneakers for my kids when there was no extra money, food for the holidays, a Christmas tree that showed up on my front porch and air conditioners during the sweltering summer heat. Just to name a few.\r\n\r\nI remember hearing him say “someday you will have all the education you need to make a difference” I wish he were here today to show him how right he was.\r\n\r\nBecause of his belief in me, I have been able to turn his generosity into actions by working with community projects for both child abuse and domestic violence. \r\n\r\nWhat I have come to learn since his passing is that his generosity was far more reaching than just this single mom, but rather over dozens of individuals whom he’d come into contact with.\r\n\r\nThank you Hal! You are why I am here today. Thank you for helping me heal and grow.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Chicago USA 2008-06-26T05:16:40-06:00 Jane 645 A. 371 IL Jane A. started the Hull House in Chicago in 1889 as a community center offering support to the children and adults in the neighborhood. She was a broad thinker and activist and helped bring a number of great facilities to her community including: night school for adults, kindergarten classes, clubs for older kids, a community kitchen, a coffee house, a library, a gymnasium, an art gallery, arts program, and community theater.\r\n\r\nShe was also an ardent advocate for labor rights, women, immigrants and children at a time when it was practically unknown. She truly embraced the diversity and richness of her urban community and actively worked to improve the quality of life and civic engagement of the people of Chicago. She is my hero because she had the chutzpah and vision and intuition to make our communities stronger by bringing them together. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-06-26T06:39:11-06:00 My Grandmother 651 377 My grandmother (1912-1986) was a 1st and 2nd grade teacher. She lost her mother to influenza during the flu epidemic in 1919, and grew up as the “Cinderella” of the family: troubled dad and uncaring stepmom—not much love. Her aunts put her to vocational school when she was 14; it was a boarding school, she hated it withal her heart, because she was the only one who had to live there all year long as she had no home to go to during vacations. She became a teacher, but it was the great depression, and there were no jobs. She worked as a nanny for a few years, but never gave up the idea of teaching class. And she got a job as a teacher at a Lutheran school, where she spent all her professional years. She was such a great teacher that her students, when they grew up, came to visit her whenever they were in town, no matter how far they had moved since they were 7-8 years old.\r\n\r\nGrandma raised two daughters and 3 grandchildren, taught us the most important values, helped Jewish people escape from the Ghetto during world war II, walked 50 miles from the capital with a cart, to get some food for her family.\r\n\r\nAnd she did all this with a smile on her face. Always.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-06-26T06:42:31-06:00 Nancy 652 H. 378 One of my heroes in Nancy H. Nancy has been teaching at our local elementary school forever, she tells her students every year that she is 196 years old. Why she is a hero to me is because she is a friend and mentor to my daughter. She was my daughter’s 3rd and 4th grade teacher. She encouraged my daughter’s love of art, creativity, reading and writing. Nancy is not the most “organized” teacher and that is why my daughter loves her so…she is quirky and artsy and fun.\r\n\r\nMy daughter is in 8th grade and every year has gone back to the elementary school to help Nancy in some fashion. Sometimes it is one day a week, sometimes once a month, sometimes a few months will lapse them she goes for 3 days straight.\r\n\r\nNancy is my hero for giving my daughter that special attention, love, and encouragement; for showing and providing an opportunity for volunteering at a young age. I appreciate Nancy! Every child should be so lucky as to have a positive mentor. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-06-26T06:44:11-06:00 Phyllis 653 W. 379 This is about my baby sister, Phyllis W. \r\n\r\nThe youngest of nine children, she was the epitome of the baby in our family. Everyone looked out for her, especially me. We were the closest in age and also best friends. At the age of 35, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, stage 4. She had two small children and was a single mom. I remember going to the oncologist for the first time with her. Her only question to the doctor was: “Let’s get going…what do I have to do? I have two kids I need to live for.” \r\n\r\nFor three years she fought a hard fight, through her chemo, then removal of a brain tumor, then to being in a wheel chair as the cancer moved into her spine. Throughout she was positive and wanted to be there for her children and my parents. Her fight was long and hard, but she lost this fight in July of 2000. To this day her children remember her as a courageous and strong person. I see her as loving all of us so much to that she was willing to go through all she did—to live her life for her children. My hero is my sister but also my niece Brittany and nephew Michael, who all are strong in the challenge of life.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-06-26T06:46:54-06:00 Ronald and Lydia 654 J. 380 My heroes are my grandparents: Ronald and Lydia J. They not only raised me but taught me that character and responsibility are more important than how much money you have, the college degrees you have earned or the job you hold. Your character is the foundation of who you are. As they say, “the true test of a man is his character.”\r\n\r\nI now try to instill this in my children. It is more important to have integrity and show kindness to others than to get perfect grades (although doing your best also demonstrates your character).\r\n\r\nMy grandmother only finished the eighth grade and my grandfather never graduated from high school but they had strong character and to me those lessons were worth far more than all the money in the world. By today’s standards they would not be deemed successful but they were very successful in what matters. They made sure they always provided for me and others even if they had to make tremendous personal sacrifices.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-06-26T06:49:57-06:00 Susan 655 B. 381 A mother. A wife. A friend. Generous beyond expectation and committed to all of the things important in her life.\r\n\r\nSusan B., together with her husband, Mike, raised three sons. All the while, she gave them the spiritual support and guidance they needed, loved them deeply and unconditionally, and found the time to share herself with others.\r\n\r\nIf anyone she knew had a need-however great or small—she would respond. Buying groceries, providing transportation, cleaning a home—whatever the need, she answered.\r\n\r\nShe found a special place to use her selfless energy: Friendship house, a mission arm of First Baptist church of Garland. Now twenty years or so later, she remains committed to helping others.\r\n\r\nShe is such a wonderful example of living a balanced life, full of love and devotion to God, family, and community.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Colorado Springs USA 2008-06-26T06:52:15-06:00 Ursula 656 G. 382 Colorado Ursula G., 90, my childhood dance teacher. Ursula taught modern dance at Colorado College in Colorado Springs for 40 years.\r\n\r\nI took dance starting at the age of 4. I was a pigeon-toed kid and my feet were corrected in my toddler years. The doctor suggested dance to continue my progress and improve my balance. Ursula was so positive with me as she was all her students. She made me believe in my ability to carry myself with elegance and grace, to embrace the body I have and that I am a wonderful dancer. I played a bear in a recital 30 years ago and she still calls me her “dancing bear” whenever I see her. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 United States 2008-06-26T07:17:51-06:00 Rachel 658 R. 384 California At 15 she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease and has lived with that for most of her life. I believe she is in her sixties now. She became a doctor, then counseled the terminally ill, and now does presentations teaching doctors and lay people that the soul needs to be remembered. She's written several books, My Grandfather's Blessings and Kitchen Table Wisdom, both national best sellers.\r\n\r\nShe truly embodies the values of this Foundation. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Newport USA 2008-06-30T05:38:03-06:00 Nick 660 P. 386 Rhode Island On February 5th, 2003 my cousin Nick, who was 14 at the time, went with his ski club to have a fun afternoon snowboarding. What started out as a fun afternoon quickly turned into a tragic accident as Nick went off an icy jump, not wearing a helmet. He came down on his neck and immediately went unconscious. His friends formed a circle around him to barricade him from other passerbys and waited for emergency help to come. He was life-flighted to UMass Medical Hospital in Worcester, MA. He was in a coma for 25 days and had brain surgery. The doctors told my aunt and uncle as well as the rest of the family who stayed at the hospital day after day that Nick would most likely never walk, talk, swallow, or even breathe again on his own. \r\n\r\nOne day at a time they slowly removed tubes and monitors. He came out of the coma and was transferred to Fransiscan Hospital for Children in Brighton, MA. Here he did occupational, physical, and speech therapy every day. With daily family visits and LOTS OF humor intertwined into his daily routines he made significant progress. He graduated to eating baby food and yogurt instead of through a feeding tube and was slowly learning to get mobility back. He had a goal to run out of the hospital.\r\n\r\nAfter 75 days in the hospital Nick ran out. He had reached his goal. He still had some tremors in his right side (his natural strong side.) This meant he had to learn how to do everything left handed instead. \r\n\r\nHe went on to be tutored the rest of the school year, insisting that he'd graduate the 8th grade on time with his friends. And he did. \r\n\r\nHe persisted with his rehab and learning and calls himself "lucky" for experiencing what he has and coming out on the other side. Nick was awarded the Profile in Courage from Fransican Children's Hospital and since his visit he and his family have started the Prefontaine Foundation at the hospital. \r\n\r\nHe works for and visits the hospital often. He graduated high school last year and we all could not have been more proud. He today at the age of 19 has already accomplished so much more than the doctors ever expected after his accident. He just got his realtor's license, does professional speaking to business people, youth, and children alike on overcoming adversity, and slowing down to take time with decision making. He also writes a free monthly newsletter highlighting other heroes among us. Each month he features a new person who has dealt with and/or is dealing with a difficult situation and making only the best of it. Seeing all of these people with such strong convictions and the courage to overcome serves as an example of how everyone else should be living. \r\n\r\nNick is an extremely inspirational, strong, motivated, and talented young individual. Not only is Nick my cousin, but I also work with him on several real estate projects and speaking engagements. He's remarkable and I get see it every day first hand.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 New Windsor USA 2008-06-30T15:38:16-06:00 Richard 662 F. 387 Maryland Rich F. was a volunteer fire fighter and Prince George's County Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty on June 27, 2008. Rich was dedicated to his wife, their two small children, and to serving his community. He lived his life with purpose and service. He could always make you smile with his positive attitude. If you met him, you would consider him a friend immediately, as he would you. He'll be sorely missed. He is the definition of a true hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Madisonville USA 2008-07-08T05:42:14-06:00 Marcus 665 M. 389 Tennessee Marcus was a co-worker of mine for many years and I've never seen anyone so devoted to their job. I've often caught myself just watching him interact with customers. He's never met a stranger, and is an overall genuine and good person. He taught me that being cool doesn't mean playing the “tough guy,” and basically that you get what you give to the world. He's the best person I've ever known....an amazing father, a devoted husband, and yet so humble.\r\n\r\nI'm one of those people who grew up with an absent father living at home. Even when the man was there, he wasn't there for me. But Marcus was always there like the big brother I always wished for. For the first time in my life, I had someone I could look up to. He gave me the gift of optimism. Whenever I was having a bad day, he'd say "Smile, Lindsey! It ain't that bad!" Even now, I find myself smiling and my spirits are higher than ever. I never knew how affection-starved I was until somebody showed me. \r\n\r\nHe's been my mentor, my hero, and my best friend. He makes me want to be a better human being. It's amazing how just one person believing in you can change your entire life. \r\n\r\nEven though we're no longer working together, and circumstances prevent us seeing much of each other, he will always be one of the most important people in my life. I hope he knows how wonderful he truly is.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 San Antonio USA 2008-07-08T05:56:11-06:00 Earl 666 R. 390 Texas My hero is a person who always puts others before himself. He is always faithful to anything he undertakes and always willing to lend a helping hand. His word is his bond. He always goes above and beyond the call of duty. He works in Human Resources. He gives 110 percent to the project. He is always going the extra mile to help someone else. He sacrifices personal rest to provide service to the employees—he gives commitment a new meaning to me. He has touched so many lives and always provides a listening ear. He is so loyal to the people that he serves. It is such an honor for me to know and be acquainted with a man who represents such dedication. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Ft. Stewart USA 2008-07-08T10:58:04-06:00 Matthew 667 391 Georgia He saves lives as a Combat Medic while protecting people. He is one of the smartest people I've met, and his heart is bigger than life. He has been deployed twice to Iraq, and has impacted people both times. He never thinks about himself, only others. By far, the world would be a better place with more people like him. He's my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 USA 2008-07-09T04:10:20-06:00 Henri 668 L. 392 Florida After surviving the concentration camps of World War II (a situation that could have destroyed one’s spirit) Henri came to America and served in our military. Through the G.I. Bill he received an education in the hospitality industry. With success in the hotel business he could have justifiably sat back and enjoyed life. Instead he founded Give Kids the World, an organization that grants wishes to families of children with life threatening illnesses that wish to come to the Orlando area’s famous theme parks. This led to building the Kids Village, a theme park/fantasy style village of villa's and handicapped accessible resort amenities like minature golf, swimming pool & water park as well as a carousel with a couple of animals capable of accommodating a wheelchair. The whole village: from the Ginger Bread house dinning hall, theatre and Ice Cream parlor to the volunteers and sponsors, provide a week-long escape at no cost to the wish families from around the world. A compassionate soul such as his doesn't stop, he also founded Dignity U Wear providing new clothes and underwear to children in shelters and in need. He also supports other causes and inspires others (like myself) to do more. If you want to be inspired research more about Henri and his Give Kids the World Village. 2009-09-12T00:00:18-06:00 1 Elk Grove Village USA 2008-07-09T04:42:02-06:00 Kelly 669 K. 393 Illinois Kelly is a one of a kind person. With a heart that she opens to all, Kelly is counted on by many. But what really has set Kelly apart and made her my hero is her non-stop optimism and dedication. Kelly has dedicated her life to helping people, and to helping spread awareness for an array of causes.\r\n\r\nLet me start by giving you a brief history of Kelly's caring life. It really started from her birth. Kelly's family has been blessed with an uncle that is mentally retarded, Uncle Dennis. Dennis lives at a home that gives him a life designed for him. It allows him to work small jobs and have as independent a life as possible, while still having 24 hour care givers.\r\n\r\nBut as time went on, and Kelly's grandparents got older, and everyone’s families started to grow, driving to get Dennis for family functions became more and more difficult. But Kelly could always be counted on. Not only to pick Dennis up for holidays and parties, but also to take Dennis out to do some of his favorite things, go to the pumpkin patch or the local arcade. This continued even after Kelly had four kids of her own, and Dennis became an important part of their upbringing. \r\n\r\nYou see, from a young age Kelly instilled in her children the belief that all people are here for a reason, and there's always something to learn. This concept greatly helped her children to learn from Uncle Dennis. He was special, and they were taught by Kelly through seeing how people gaped and stared at Dennis, that it's not right to judge people. People are special and always have something to teach us.\r\n\r\nThese values were carried on by Kelly when her cousin Maureen had her first daughter, Kristen. Kristen was born mentally retarded and with many other complications. The doctors said she wouldn't live a week. But they were wrong.\r\n\r\nKristen ended up living nearly 5 years. And in that time, Kelly dedicated much time to helping Maureen and her husband Jim care for Kristen, and even helped to start, and run, a non-profit organization in Kristen's name after she passed. Kelly helped many to see that Kristen was a gift. She taught us all unconditional love and even though she required much care and attention, what she gave us, surpassed the effort it took to care for her.\r\n\r\nBut again, Kelly's dedication and caring doesn't stop there. Kelly continued to give to those less fortunate, caring for a boy with autism, working in a school helping kids who were handicapped, and on to her current endeavor.\r\n\r\nCurrently, Kelly runs a small business that again, is dedicated to helping people. Her business designs and makes jewelry that is used by non-profit organizations to spread awareness and memorialize those who have touched our lives. With accounts across America, Canada, and the world, Kelly's business has facilitated the spreading of awareness for many causes.\r\n\r\nAs you can see, Kelly is an extremely caring and giving person. She's an amazing daughter, sister, cousin, niece, grand daughter, wife, mother, and friend. Through all her giving, she never neglected her family and always was there with open arms and an open heart.\r\n\r\nThat is why Kelly, my mom, is my hero. And being her 20 year old son, I know that I would not be who I am or where I am without my mother. Her caring heart, her dedication, and her optimism that we can make life better for all. That is why my mom, Kelly K., is my hero.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 West Covina USA 2008-07-09T05:05:11-06:00 Andrew 671 M. 394 California My hero doesn't have superman's strength or the ability to fly. He has a different kind of strength: the strength to beat all odds, the ability to soar with courage. His name is Andrew. He was a premature baby and was told that he would not make it. He had heart surgery at the age of 13 and now has a clean heart. Literally. He has never once showed defeat. He has only ever shown strength and courage. He inspires me everyday, he shows me the kindness he has towards everyone, teaches me to be strong and to never let anyone tell me that I wont make it. He has a huge heart—bigger than most could ever imagine possible. He is definitely my hero. \r\n\r\nWould you guess he has Down Syndrome? No? Well neither would the rest of the world. Andrew just graduated in June 2008 and will be 18 this fall. I know he is going to do great things. So watch out world—Andrew is coming!\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Monon USA 2008-07-09T05:14:30-06:00 Shawn 672 C. 395 Indiana I met Shawn a few years ago. She is my hero as she is everything I've ever wanted to be. Perfect, no...and doesn't claim to be. She's been challenged with life threatening illness more than once. She is a true miracle. Shawn has more inner strength than anyone I have ever known. She's helped me learn and taught me to grow from my mistakes. She gives me hope when I have none. She believes in me and helps me to believe in myself. Shawn is an amazing woman, wife, mother, daughter, sister, and true friend. I only wish I could share what my friend, my hero means to me. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 2008-07-11T09:01:28-06:00 My Friend 676 399 In my late 30's a friend of mine died of cancer. She fought for 6 years and suffered through numerous treatments. In my late forties I was told I had cancer. For two weeks I kept it to myself. I had decided not to fight it. I told no one. \r\n\r\nOne night while chatting with a friend on line I typed the words that made it real. At that same moment another friend arrived at my house the soul purpose of the visit was to find out what was wrong and why was I acting so withdrawn. He was thinking he had done something wrong! I could not say the words out loud so I had him read my post in the chat room. He looked at me put his arms around me and I cried my fear. \r\n\r\nHe then said "Well, you wanted to make a change in your life." I looked at him stunned and said, "Dying wasn't what I had in mind." He laughed and said "We will go on a diet together…you had wanted to lose weight.” I also had an excellent doctor who supported the idea and bought me a book “Living Without Fat.” So that is what we did the entire time I was going through treatment. He had me focus on life and my body and cooking and recipes. I became so positive about my life and the diet that I didn't have room for the cancer. Finally came the day when I was told that there was no sign of the tumor. \r\n\r\nWithout my friend I would have died. His love, his belief, was a life line. He is a hero. He listened, he cared, he loved, and he showed a commitment to me and all those in his life beyond anyone I have known.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 South Greenfield USA 2008-07-18T05:34:07-06:00 Deanna 682 M. 404 Missouri Deanna McLemore, my mother, has given selflessly to our small farm community for over 45 years. As a nurse she has touched the lives of most families in the county, either caring for their elderly parents, their children, or anyone in between. She has given up time on the weekends and in the evenings, always off the clock, to go see someone who needed her. \r\n\r\nShe has volunteered for Hospice, helping individuals and their families feel supported through their last brief times together. She has been a hero to many young people who have gone on to nursing school because of her influence on them. I became a social worker because of seeing her lifelong commitment to helping people. She is not just my hero but a hero to her community and makes it better just by being there.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Washington United States 2008-07-19T07:40:38-06:00 Amanda 685 G. 405 New Jersey Ms. G. teaches everyone to love who they are and she has never judged anyone. She is a very talented teacher and mentor. Ms. G. is not afraid to do anything. She's always willing to defeat fear. \r\n\r\nShe's always there for anyone who needs to talk. And she's always willing to give another chance. She truly wants everyone to get along, and that is how she lives. She is my hero! 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Monroe United States 2008-07-19T16:01:06-06:00 Erin 688 B 407 Michigan Erin B. has taught me that you don't have to be fake or selfish to be popular with your peers. She has come into my life and taught me how to be a better friend and a better person. She brightens every room she walks into, and makes a new friend with everyone she greets with a "Hello." 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Chesterfield USA 2008-07-26T16:32:00-06:00 Richard 700 O. 415 Missouri Richard and his wife (Myra) have been teachers in some way all their lives. They have helped in ways we only wish people would really take time and effort to do. Without expectation of any return, they have touched so many lives, old and young, by their constant giving of themselves and making people feel good about themselves. They also open opportunities for many, many people everyday. They are both truly a blessing in my life, and I know in many other lives now and yet to come. For that reason, they are my heroes. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Norwalk USA 2008-08-02T08:38:16-06:00 Hope 705 W. 417 Connecticut Hope is a nurse currently working in Darfur with Doctors Without Borders assisting women and children in a clinic camp. Hope wears many hats as she works with cases of trauma/childbirth/rehabilitation; not to mention the general well being and survival of those she touches. She is my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Summerville USA 2008-08-22T17:26:04-06:00 Chad 732 C 428 South Carolina My father is a wonderful man. He is a man with true values that were instilled in him when he was very young. My father has always presented himself as a strong and solid person. He has climbed his way from the bottom to reach his personal goals. The compassion that he maintains for strangers is a compassion that can never be compared. His goal in life is to help others, and to lend them a helping hand when they have fallen. My father is a chief for a police department. I will always admire his wisdom, love, and sincerity for the rest of my life. Words will never be able to describe what a wonderful man he is. The values that I have learned from him will remain with me, and I am blessed to have him as a hero and a role-model. I love my hero-my daddy. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Pemberton USA 2008-08-26T12:00:05-06:00 Bobbie 736 D 430 New Jersey Bobbie D. graduated high school third in her class in 2004. Even though she could go anywhere, she went to Africa to help run a program known as Second Chance for Darfur's Kids. She is still only a college student yet instead of finding a way to pay for college textbooks, she finds ways to raise money for dictionaries to teach refugees in Egypt how to read and write. She is a true inspiration to not only her close family and friends, but to our school and our community. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Philadelphia United States of America 2008-08-29T10:01:04-06:00 Doris 743 G 433 Pennsylvania In the late 1970's, Carroll Park was a block of crime and dirty deeds in inner city Philadelphia, so bad that one could not pass through during the daytime. But one day, a group of residents decided to change that. They entered the park ready to change it for the better. With paintbrushes, rakes, brooms, and determination as their tools, this group transformed the park from a disgusting area to a beautiful spot to relax, complete with benches and clean sidewalks. Later, they put up two playgrounds so that the neighborhood children could play. Doris G. was a part of this group, and it was her passion to clean up the park, or "take it back," as she likes to say. She worked there every day, little by little making it even more beautiful with brightly colored benches, mowed grass, and trimmed bushes. 30 years later, Doris is still there, always working hard with a smile on her face to make the park remain a place that brings calm to adults, joy to children, and a break from hectic lives to all. Doris G. truly is the heart and soul of Carroll Park. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Stockton USA 2008-09-09T17:06:19-06:00 Chrystal 755 R 438 California Chrystal had a really tough childhood. From being hungry to abuse, she held onto her hopes and dreams from a young age. When she was eight she decided she was meant to help people. At the age of sixteen she was doing more volunteer work than anything else. When she was seventeen she even represented California at meetings at the United Nations and was the leader of the state for a Humanitarian Aid group. She's involved in numerous Human and Animal rights acts. She's won awards for helping many Children's homes in places like Gilroy California and Cambodia. In 2009 she's leaving her home country and her family and friends to live in Russia, where she doesn't know the language or the people, to work at an orphanage. She's dedicated her life to helping other people and always puts other people first. She always says, "It's by luck that I was born where I am. I'm not any higher than anyone else or more deserving of a good life than anyone else and I want to help people that can't speak for themselves." She's a loyal friend and a caring family member. She's given hope to the hopeless. She's my greatest hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Farmingdale United States 2008-09-19T14:57:13-06:00 Dave & Lena 770 M 442 New York Dave & Lena are strong people who are helping me finish high school. It may sound cheesy being my hero and all, but they really help me with my life, and it is greatly appreciated. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Orange USA 2008-10-01T19:22:46-06:00 Renee 792 B. 446 California Whether your life is going well, or facing challenges, almost inevitably along comes a person who turns your world upside down--but for the better. They inspire you to be the best you can be, and always try to be even better every day. They do this without even trying. They simply bring out the best in you. For me, that Person was Renee. I adore her, and am so thankful that I have her friendship and inspiration! 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 2008-10-02T07:31:42-06:00 Jimmy 794 448 Jimmy was the cousin everyone looked up to, the Head Honcho, the cousin who was always there to help the little ones along. He accepted everyone for who they were and what they had to offer, no matter how different they truly were in their life or how they appeared to others. Right up until his life ended a short time ago he was still helping others to find their way. \r\n\r\nHe was a teacher and had spent a career in the National Guard. He was athletic and shared his talents with all who came into contact with him. He would bring children's clothes home from school to wash them if they had no way to get it done at their home. He cared about children who were not even his own and treated adults in the same way. \r\n\r\nHe had an immeasurable amount of love for everyone and never looked the other way when he noticed or heard about someone in need. He taught me that everyone you come into contact with should have a lasting memory of your kindness and generosity and that people are not different from each other but rather "unique" and that is what makes our world so great. He taught me to accept everyone equally and find the importance within them instead of the differences. I am sad without him but his memory lives on in my heart and in countless others’. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Every City United States 2008-10-02T10:02:14-06:00 American Red Cross 795 449 Every State I spent the last 2 weeks serving on the disaster relief operation for Hurricane Ike. While this is not my first with the ARC, I stand in awe of the tireless dedication of many other volunteers. \r\n\r\nSome of these have spent a significant portion of their life serving their country in times of disaster. One such gentlemen was on his 157th national relief operation. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Myrtle Beach USA 2008-10-05T10:41:25-06:00 David 798 R. 450 South Carolina David is my daddy. Today is his 74th birthday. He is my hero. Daddy adopted me, my younger sister and my little brother, when I was 12 years old. There is something very special about a parent that will take on someone else’s children, shower them with love and raise them up as their own.\r\n\r\nMy dad’s first wife passed away with a brain tumor and he was left with their two young girls, ages six and three. Several years later, he met and married my mother.\r\n\r\nYou see, my father made two broken families whole again. Each parent sold their existing homes and moved us into "our" home. Each parent also adopted the others' children making all of our names the same. There was never any distinction between his and hers. It was ours. We were a real-life Brady Bunch where love and discipline were handed out equally and fairly. Four years later there was a new addition to this blended family. She was "our" baby sister and the final seam that glued our family together as one.\r\n\r\nIronically, my father was not shown a lot of individual love as a child. He grew up in the shadow of his then world famous but very absent father. His mother had other younger children at home and she was working the third shift in the nearby cotton mill. His father was a catcher for the New York Yankees and played in the 1947 World Series. Players were not paid the salaries that many of our athletes today receive.\r\n\r\nWell, Daddy and his brother, Charlie, knew their way around town (Lancaster, South Carolina) by the time they were 8 and 10 years old. They knew how to shoot pool and would often wander the late-night streets while Granny was at work.\r\n\r\nSomeone informed Granny as to what was going on and Granny decided the best thing to do would be to send daddy and Charlie to the Connie Maxwell Children's Home in Greenwood, South Carolina. It was there where my dad and uncle spent their childhood. I think daddy spent ten years there and Uncle Charlie eight or nine.\r\n\r\nBoth of those boys turned into fine young men. Both went onto college with sports scholarships and received their degrees. Daddy received a Masters Degree in Secondary Education and became a teacher, a coach, a mentor and later a high school principal.\r\n\r\nIt is only now that I have grown older and have a family of my own, that I can truly appreciate the amount of love and that was given to each of us children. I appreciate and respect the steps my mother and father took to make our family whole again, those many years ago.\r\n\r\nAs the saying goes, “Any man can be a father, but it takes a really special man to be a ‘daddy.’”\r\n\r\nLast October, my daddy suffered a stroke. After much hard work and determination, he has since regained most of his mobility, but he has lost the gift of speech. My dad loved to tell stories of his childhood. He so enjoyed running into former students and faculty. He loved to catch up on old times. He is such a caring man that even after all of his struggles this past year he can still say, "I love you." I can't ask for anything greater than for him to be able to say those three little words to me. \r\n\r\nDaddy is my hero and will always hold my heart. My family has been blessed to have been given such a good, kind and gentle man.\r\n\r\nI thank you for the opportunity to share a little of the hero, that made the biggest impact that shaped my life.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Weathersfield USA 2008-10-05T21:59:04-06:00 RAY 800 K. 451 Ohio On May 20, 2007, off-duty volunteer fire captain Ray K. acted selflessly and heroically to save the life of a resident in a burning home. Ray learned of a residential explosion only a few blocks from his own home. He went to the address and learned that an individual was injured inside the home. With the assistance of a police officer and another individual, Ray entered the burning home. With little regard for his own personal safety, he crawled on his hands and knees, located the injured occupant and helped pull the person outside to safety. City fire officials said Ray’s actions probably saved the occupant’s life. The Captain’s heroic and courageous actions in responding to a citizen in need bring great credit to himself, his family and the State of Ohio.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Little Rock USA 2008-10-13T05:49:34-06:00 Wally 808 G. 452 Arkansas Wally is one of my personal heroes because he helps people--me specifically--know where to look to find true happiness and how to have peace in the home. He's constantly creating things to educate people about how to have healthy families. I've watched him change at least a hundred lives and heard how he's helped train others to do the same. He's amazing. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Haleyville USA 2008-10-13T07:25:11-06:00 Jason 809 L. 453 Alabama My daddy is my hero. I think he is the best dad in the world. An example of this would be the first time I rode a bike: Crash Boom Bang! I had a very bad wreck! He hustled to me into the house at a very high speed and totally took care of me. He picked me up and dusted me off. My dad is the best!!!\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Littleton United States of America 2008-10-14T03:16:04-06:00 Rachel 810 S. 454 Colorado My hero is Rachel Scott. She was killed in the Columbine shooting, the first one killed. \r\n\r\nBefore she died, she always made sure to included everyone and anybody in whatever she did. She helped numerous kids before they hurt themselves. \r\n\r\nBecause of her example, I am in the program Rachel's Challenge. Compassion, pass it on. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Altamonte Springs U.S.A. 2008-10-16T10:54:15-06:00 Lou 816 A. 457 Florida I have worked with Lou for 11 years. Even though he is over 15 years younger than me, I consider him to be my mentor. He is wise beyond his years. He has taught me and my co-workers positive values for living that have made our lives richer in so many ways.\r\n\r\nBasic values, like:\r\nHow to treat people\r\nHow to dig inside deep and pull out that desire to do a good job\r\nHow to live life with purity\r\nHow to understand and except failure and overcome it\r\nHow to be ready for adversity and deal with it\r\nHow to find the confidence that comes from hard work, and so much more.\r\n\r\nI will always remember him as a very special human being, long after we no longer work together. I now have a son that works with our company, and I feel especially lucky, knowing that those same values are influencing him and his family as well.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Reno United States 2008-10-16T13:25:19-06:00 Ken 817 C. 458 Nevada Ken has taught me a lot. He has taught me to have a positive attitude, to never give up, and to work for everything. Kevin is the Principle at my middle school. He has encouraged us to Watch the Foundation for a Better Life videos everyday in advisory. He also has made my life easier from the first day I started at his school. Ken is my Hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Mexicali Mexico 2008-10-16T18:58:13-06:00 Anonymous Hero 818 459 Baja California I don't know my hero by name or even remember his face. He's one of those unnamed and unsung people who do a good deed not for the recognition but because it's the right thing to do. \r\n\r\nI was 16 years old, going through possibly one of the hardest times of my young life, sitting in the passenger seat of my mother's car in the middle of the summer at an intersection in Mexico while visiting family. All of sudden a car on the right cross-street burst into flames from the engine overheating. I sat there and stared mesmerized by the flames, and out of nowhere, I see this man running across the intersection from the other side of the street just when the lights turned green carrying a fire extinguisher. \r\n\r\nI'll never forget that man, even though I never saw his face, as he ran across the street amidst the cars starting to go, including ours. I'll never forget how I stared as he threw the hood open and extinguished the fire before it got out hand - the whole time the driver of the car sitting still in shock behind the wheel. He'll never know how I think about that single moment all the time, and it reminds me that there's kindness in this world.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Spring Creek USA 2008-10-18T19:06:02-06:00 Daniel 821 D 460 Nevada My hero is my husband. He is an amazing man, especially to me. We have been married 33 years and his example of showing love is unsurpassed. He is always kind, courteous, patient, and giving. He is very courageous when confronted with difficult situations. He helps guide people to improve their lives and inspires them to improve their character. He attends college part-time and helps students by being a good friend and takes time whenever they need help academically or when they need someone to talk to. He serves his family and his community unselfishly. \r\n\r\nI am very proud of my husband and I know that without a doubt that my life is better because of him. I am continually changed and challenged because of his example. I was in a serious car accident that nearly took my life about a year ago and he took such great and careful care of me while I was recovering. He had to do everything for me plus take care of his job, college classes, etc. for six months until I could begin to get back to functioning normally.\r\n\r\nHe gives and gives, and I always know it is with LOVE.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Gatlinburg USA 2008-10-24T01:05:10-06:00 Joyce 826 M. 461 Tennessee When I was twelve, mom became a single parent and raised my sister and I completely by herself. As the daughter of an Appalachian brick mason (and one of seven children), my mother was no stranger to tough and meager times. How she managed to keep us in stylish clothes, Nike’s and well fed on a modest income of near minimum wage is astonishing. For as little money as we had I never felt poor in any way. \r\n\r\nThe degree of unconditional love she gave my sister and I every single day became the building blocks for who I am today. She helped us to always remember the important things in life such as treating people (and yourself) with respect, remembering our maker, honesty, hard working and most importantly, how to love. She has the iron will of a true hero!\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Allen United States 2008-10-27T04:38:06-06:00 Cheryl 835 R. 465 TX Cheryl is my mother. She has always been there for me, supporting me in everything I do. She is just a great and loving mom. One day i want to be like her. I love my mom. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Fairview United States 2008-10-27T04:38:49-06:00 Monte 840 R. 466 Texas Monte R. is my dad and he has made a huge difference in the first 13 years of my life. He has helped me throughout life and through hard ships. He has never given up on me and has always done what is best for me. If I were to pick anybody to be my hero and help in the future it would most likely be my dad. There is always room for a little more kindness to be given, and every time, my dad fills it up completely. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 San Marcos United States 2008-10-27T04:50:32-06:00 Ashley 851 L. 470 Texas My hero is my sister, Ashley. From the moment I was born she has set a good example for me and has shown me how to do the right thing. She cares about my family and others a lot and is great at showing compassion and reaching out to those in need. She has followed through with her goals and now attends college in San Marcos. I plan to go to college too, just like her.\r\n\r\nAshley stands up for what she believes in which inspires me, and she has a strong dedication to everything she puts her mind to. I can always depend on my sister to be there for me no matter what, and others can too. She is my sister but we get along like best friends and hardly ever fight—one of the many reasons I love her! We help each other out all the time and forgive each others mistakes. She is a good listener and gives good advice when I need it, but she is also always up to learn and know something new. \r\n\r\nAshley always shows love and loyalty to me and our family. She is patient with me and everyone else and she perseveres through anything that comes up. Her respect for others is amazing and she has a great deal of responsibility which helps to build her self-esteem. She shares a lot and has soul and strength to get through everything. She sets the right example for me and others, which I admire. My sister is my best friend and my hero. She is an amazing person and I hope to be just like her.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Frisco United States of America 2008-10-30T04:53:49-06:00 Jeff 861 M 471 Texas My soccer coach, Jeff M. is my hero. He has showed me so much not only in soccer but also about my outlook on life. I am a usually a negative person about myself and the things I do. Every time I would do something wrong in soccer I would take it out on myself. He is the one who would encourage me after everything I did, good or bad. It really helped, and I started to play much better. I am now the starting left defender on my team and usually play the whole game. So, thank you Coach Jeff. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Kansas City United States 2008-11-08T13:25:42-07:00 Amanda 871 R. 474 Missouri I have a mental illness and Amanda R. is my social worker here in Kansas City, Missouri. Although for the most part I'm okay, I have certainly put Amanda through the ringer for the four years she's been my social worker. I've definitely confused her, and in my mind I'm sure I had her going crazy. There were days where I would leave 10 or 11 messages on her voice mail that she would discover when she came in the office the next day. Much of my behavior was due to me not taking my medication, and/or drinking.\r\n\r\nThrough it all, though, Amanda has been a real source of inspiration for me. In the last six months I have come to realize that she has never wavered in her support for me as a client and never threw my case away, even though there were moments when I had hoped she would so I can prove to myself that I was not worth being worked on. I am learning to be stable and am starting to become a great part of society. I am finally at a place where I want to do good things and thrive. I have managed to stay on medication (although I'm not always perfect). I don't drink now even though I want to. I keep my calls to her office phone to a minimum unless I am feeling too frustrated to deal with issues. \r\n\r\nI want everyone to know my story because Amanda R. is the hero in my life. Had she given up on me like others in the past have done, I likely would have hurt myself. Amanda has always been the biggest source of support in my life. She always makes time to listen to me and others. Again: thank you for saving my life Amanda.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 USA 2008-11-14T18:09:47-07:00 Colin 877 F. 477 I have never have met Colin at all or even talked to him but I heard about his story. Colin died in a car accident on January 20th, 2006. After his death people started to come forward with stories about how he quietly performed small acts of courage which saved their lives, the lives of friends, and the lives of their siblings. He never sought recognition. He never did these things to be popular. He did hard things because they were right, not because he wanted to be a hero. Really, I just want to do what he did and live my life the way he lived his. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Frankfurt Germany 2008-11-18T06:47:20-07:00 Anne 878 Frank 478 Anne Frank, 1929–45, German diarist, b. Frankfurt as Anneliese Marie Frank. In order to escape Nazi persecution, her family emigrated (1933) to Amsterdam, where her father Otto became a business owner. After the Nazis occupied the Netherlands, her family (along with several other Jews) hid for just over two years (1942–44) in a “secret annex” that was part of her father's office and warehouse building. During those years, Anne kept a diary characterized by poignancy, insight, humor, touching naiveté, and sometimes tart observation. The family was betrayed to the Germans in 1944, and at 15 Anne died of typhus in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp.\r\n\r\nAnne's diary was discovered by one of the family's helpers and after the war was given to her father, the only immediate family member to survive the Holocaust. Edited by him, The Diary of a Young Girl (1947) became an international bestseller and has been translated into English (1952) and 66 other languages. It was also adapted into a play (1955) and a film (1959). A critical edition was published in 1986, and a complete edition, containing almost a third more material, appeared in 1995 on the 50th anniversary of her death. Anne Frank also wrote stories, fables, and essays, which were published in 1959. The Franks' Amsterdam hiding place is now a museum, there is a foundation established by her father, and institutions devoted to her exist in New York, Berlin, London, and other cities.\r\n\r\nStory courtesy of www.encyclopedia.com. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Eagan United States 2008-11-25T12:14:47-07:00 Kathryn and David 884 S. 482 Minnesota These parents lost both their son, Andrew, and their daughter, Abby to cancer. In honor of their children, Kathryn and David have worked hard to establish a foundation to financially assist families of terminally ill children. \r\n\r\nThe foundation aims to provide enough income for one or both parents to stay home and care for their sick child during what could be their last months of life. Although their grief for their children is great, Kathryn and David have continued to put the time and effort into the foundation to keep spreading joy to families facing such heartbreaking challenges. The Andrew and Abby Szott Foundation has helped 5 families so far, and is still giving. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Los Angeles USA 2008-12-01T04:56:08-07:00 Prem 885 R 483 California My hero's name is Prem. He has created the Prem Rawat Foundation to show solidarity with people in need and suffering from lack of water, food or natural disasters. At the same time he spreads good values and appreciation for life by traveling around the world to deliver very inspiring talks. That's how I came to know Prem. I met him in 1973 when he was just 15. At such a young age he had already left India to spread his teachings about peace: how real peace has to start inside the individual if we want to see it established firmly in any society as societies are made up of individuals. \r\n\r\nPrem still continues doing this amazing job, traveling around the world and reminding people of what they already know. Everybody in this world wants to feel good and at peace. And when they are, caring about others is automatic and not part of a set of rules or codes.\r\n\r\nI have the honor of being a witness to the great job Mr. Rawat continues to do. I also wanted to congratulate this fantastic Foundation for also reminding people of the simple facts of life we forget constantly: Every moment in this life is precious. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 New York City USA 2008-12-08T15:54:11-07:00 Larry 890 S. 486 New York Larry is a resident in Greenwich Village and he spends almost all of his day collecting money for various causes and organizations; for example, The Fight Against AIDS. He does all of this despite his mild mental retardation.\r\n\r\nLarry has raised over $10,000 for local charities over the years. Larry is very persistent. When he goes to the doctor for a check-up, he is asking him to donate money to his latest cause. When he is in a restaurant, he asks the owner, waiters, waitresses, and even other customers.\r\n\r\nOn top of that, he is always outside (when the weather permits it) on the steps of an apartment building asking anyone and everyone who passes by. Larry is my hero because he never gives up.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Walnut United States 2008-12-13T14:48:59-07:00 Crystal 897 R. 488 California Throughout the course of the two years in high school which I have completed, there have been numerous occasions in which I was depressed because I felt like I had nobody who cared for me. During these times I have turned to three individuals for guidance and comfort. Their names are Crystal, Cherisse, and Kristine. They have made an impact on my life and I will never be able to repay them.\r\n\r\nI am not like most teenagers. I do not wear the latest fashion and I do not know what is in vogue at the current moment. I do not watch television and feel rather uncomfortable going out or being in the presence of other people, especially around males. For this reason, I have been called many terrible names that have really affected the way I look at myself. The only reason why I do not hate high school is because of Crystal, Cherisse, and Kristine. These three have made me realize how lucky I am to live where I live.\r\n\r\nI consider Crystal my big sister. She has always been there for me anytime I needed someone. I met her in marching band, because she played the saxophone, the same instrument as me. During times in which I thought I was worthless, I turned to her and she made me feel important. On my birthday, she came into my first period and handed me a bag with several little gifts inside of it. I never received gifts from other students on my birthday, but she remembered. I know she constantly prays for me and I appreciate all of her acts of kindness. She probably saved my life.\r\n\r\nThrough Crystal I was able to meet Cherisse. Cherisse is the kindest person you’ll ever meet. She always has a smile on and is always willing to give you a hug when you ask for one. I remember there was one day when my self-esteem was really low, and as I entered the band room, I saw her and she smiled. That smile made my day and I actually felt like someone cared. Not once has she ever maltreated me and I am grateful that she joined the saxophone section for her senior year. It gave me one more person to talk to.\r\n\r\nLastly, Crystal’s other friend, Kristine, has made a tremendous impact on my life. No one has ever made me laugh so hard. She has such a joking and fun personality that anytime I’m gloomy, I think of her and what she has done to make me laugh. I will never forget the time when I gave unclear instructions and accidentally made her take a picture with the wrong club, a club that we had no affiliation with whatsoever. Out of the one hundred and fifty members of the marching band, she is the most energetic and always gets everyone up on their feet. She puts a smile on everyone’s face.\r\n\r\nThese three young ladies have changed me for the better. They love me for who I am and they have always been there for me, so this is a token of my appreciation. I will always remember them and they have left and special mark in my heart. Thank you once again. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Short Hills USA 2008-12-20T10:45:20-07:00 Eric 900 S. 489 New Jersey Last Friday the most amazing thing happened to me. For several months I had been training with my sister to run a half-marathon. It was my sister’s first half marathon and both of us decided to use the race as an opportunity to raise money for causes we cared about. My sister raised money for cancer research and I raised money to start a scholarship fund for my friend’s daughter, Clementine, whose mother had passed away earlier this year.\r\n\r\nTo create a little extra incentive for my friends and family to donate, I promised to run all 13.1 miles in a banana costume if they helped me reach my goal of $2000 by race day. As it turns out, the day before the race I was stuck at $1987 — $13 short of my goal. So I did what any normal, rational banana runner would do – I put on my banana costume and took to the streets of Los Angeles to hand out fliers asking for donations.\r\n\r\nMy goal in this endeavor was simply to raise the final $13. But what happened instead was nothing short of amazing. I ran in the banana costume from Venice Beach to the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica and back. While the great majority of people looked at me like I was crazy, one guy smiled at my ridiculousness and told me that I had “just made his day.” Later that night I looked at my fundraising page to see if anyone had donated, and there was a $500 donation sitting in the account from a man named Eric Silver, whom I had never met.\r\n\r\nTo say the least, on that Friday afternoon Eric Silver made my day– no, that’s a huge understatement. Eric Silver made my 2008. I don’t know who he is or why he decided to give so generously to a stranger, but if anyone reading this knows Eric Silver, please let him know that BananaMan says “thank you” from the bottom of my heart.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Hiram USA 2008-12-21T09:44:43-07:00 Joseph 901 S. 490 GA My husband Joseph Shipp Jr. was my hero. He died at age 32 in a hit and run accident that left me on my own with our three wonderful boys. He was always there for me and the boys. \r\n\r\nHe cared for others by helping them get their cars fixed, so they would have transportation. He was a man of great faith an shared that with everyone he met - young or old. He has been greatly missed by all of us, but he will always be our hero. We love you!! 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 West Brooklyn USA 2008-12-23T14:23:20-07:00 Margina 902 S. 491 Illinois My mother is my hero as well as my best friend. She cheers me on when no one else is there. She also encourages me when I feel like giving up. She is a fabulous person and she always helps me learn new things.\r\n\r\nShes my best friend because she doesn't stay inside and watch TV, instead she comes outside and plays sports with me! If I had three words to describe my mom they would be outgoing, caring, and loving. That's why my hero is my mom! 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Seattle USA 2009-01-01T18:46:11-07:00 Roberta 905 S. 492 Washington This is a story about my Aunt Bobby. She was the most loved person I ever knew. As a boy I remember visiting her and her husband Bob, son Randy and daughter Patty at their Gross Pointe home in Michigan. I arrived one summer after school had let out. I found a family filled with love and a home that ran smoothly though it still had the usual family drama. The big difference in this home? There was no sadness. \r\n\r\nJokes and silly fun made this light-hearted home a dream from what I knew back east. I learned that Bobby had started the first Boy Scout troop in Michigan, and was involved with Girl Scout and Brownies clubs. She and her husband Bob were chosen to be the God Parents by every family on their street. At the time I thought that was pretty cool. As the weeks went on I learned how to read and I learned how to love through her firm way of coaxing me to learn. I was a very sad child from a very sad home in a very sad city. Bobby is my hero because she knew how to live and she knew how to love and she knew how important it was to be fair even when it did not give her the advantage. My Aunt Bobby knew that winning was not always good and she knew that losing was not always bad. \r\n\r\nThere was something about her and her husband Bob I have never seen before in any person then or even today. It was a kind of class, a kind of knowing that they had that made them glow with cheer and confidence. There was a kind of mystery about them like they knew something that they held dear that they knew was special. \r\n\r\nI think it was love. The kind of love that is refined and yet easy, natural, and filled with life, joy and humor. I tell my friends today that they do not make folks like that any more. Bobby S. was my aunt and my hero because she knew right from wrong and she practiced the Golden Rule to the letter. She always said you could not go too far wrong if you stuck with the Golden Rule. I have ever since. And though my life does not have the same sparkle or glee that their family did, I still got to see it and experience the love of people whom I knew for certain loved me. That is why Bobby and her husband Bob are my heroes.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Barrie Canada 2009-01-06T05:48:30-07:00 Erica 908 A. 494 ON My hero is my older sister Erica. She has always been there for me when I needed someone to talk to, and she is like a second mother to me. If there is ever something that I can't tell my Mom, I go to Erica because I know that I can trust and confide in her with my secrets and she'll always give me the right advice to help me make a good choice. I love her so much and she’s a great person to be around she always makes me laugh but she knows when to be serious.\r\n\r\nMy sister is my hero and she always will be.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Jinja Uganda 2009-01-08T04:29:02-07:00 Fred 909 M 495 In Uganda, AIDS orphans and abused children take the streets of cities, hoping to find enough to eat by begging, stealing and searching the garbage dumps. Fred is a college student in Jinja who likes to play tennis and listen to music...and to save street kids in his spare time. \r\n\r\nOnce a month, he gives over 100 kids a bath, shaves their head to keep them more clean, hands out whatever used clothing and blankets he has, and provides a hot meal. He wins their trust and heals their wounds. And when he can, he helps them return to family, find a foster home or move to a rural orphanage. At a time when others his age are partying and dating, Fred tends to the kids that sleep outside the door of his small room, covered with cardboard for protection from other gangs of kids. He's braved personal danger to protect these kids and they adore him. \r\n\r\nFred is an amazing young man who has made a positive difference to thousands of children...a perfect Hero.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 2009-01-15T08:24:16-07:00 My Dad 911 496 My hero is my dad. He passed away two years ago and yet it still feels just like yesterday he was here. He died of cirrhosis of the liver. It was hard watching him slowly fading away. He’d been to the hospital before but always came out. Until this day I had always thought of this as a dream. A dream, I’d soon wake up from.\r\n\r\nHis passing at such a young age made me want to live my life. Make friends with whom ever I could or mend friendships that had torn apart. My dad was the type of man who got along with anyone. He wasn’t shy, but he wasn’t cocky. He knew how to get a crowd to laugh. Everyone says I look like him and that I’ve got his personality. When I think about it sometimes, I believe I do. I’m always doing my best to make others laugh or happy. I hate being in some kind of fight. I’m always just aiming for happiness. \r\n\r\nMy dad is my faith and my hope at the beginning and end of everyday. He didn’t get to do so many things he wanted to. His life had still so much more to offer. So, I’ve decided to move forward. I’m living my life to its fullest the way my dad probably wanted to. I’m setting goals and accomplishing them. It’s thanks to my dad that I realized why my life is worth living and I can’t wait till I see him again one day and can tell him all about it.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 2009-01-16T05:12:59-07:00 Kelli 912 497 My sister, Kelli, is my hero. She has overcome a lifetime of hardships including physical and emotional abuse, substance abuse and poverty. Today, she is a clean and sober single mother of five daughters. Though she works full time and takes phenomenal care of her 5 children, she still finds time on the holidays to take plates of food to less fortunate people she knows throughout the city. She opens her home to animals in need of care and has taught her children the same values that I admire in her: perseverance; kindness; sacrifice and the spirit of sharing.\r\n\r\nMany times during my life, I have lost my way and lost hope. It was always the thought of her that kept me going; her strength, her unconditional love and her complete selflessness have been my beacons throughout my life.\r\n\r\nNow, I am pregnant and look to her as a role model for motherhood. I can only hope and strive to be as wonderful a mother as she is and to instill the same values in my children that she has so successfully taught hers.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Birmingham United States 2009-01-22T05:15:31-07:00 Phoenix and Talia 913 D. 498 Alabama On October 15, 2003, I received a call from my wife that she was getting ready to have an emergency C-section. She had gone in for a normal prenatal check up and was told that the baby was breech and they needed to take him. I immediately left work facing a 2 1/2 hour drive in which time I had no idea how mother or baby were doing.\r\n \r\nI arrived at the hospital just as my wife was being wheeled out of surgery and was told that she would be fine, but that there were some problems with our son. His heart was beating at about twice the normal rate for an infant and it looked as though there might be a small hole in it as well. They weren't sure if he would even last the night. \r\n\r\nThe first time that I was able to see or touch my son was through an incubator. While only two weeks early, he was on the small side. We talked to the doctors and because we were in a small town, they didn't feel they had the correct facilities to meet his needs. We were advised that he would be taken to a larger facility about 3 hours away that had an excellent neonatal unit.\r\n \r\nMarcy, my wife, was still in quite a bit of pain, but was able to see our son for just a few moments the next morning before he was taken to the helicopter to be transported. She was to stay in the hospital for a few more days for a full recovery, but urged me to go with the baby. I spent the next few days traveling back and forth between hospitals before she was released that Saturday - the baby had been born on Tuesday.\r\n \r\nIn the neonatal ICU, we were advised that our son did indeed have a small hole in is heart as well as an irregular heartbeat. We spent 10 days in the ICU and during that time, he was defibrillated four times in an effort to lower and regulate his heartbeat. Finally, we were allowed to take him home, but not without medication to regulate his heartbeat. He was on medication for the first year of his life. We were advised that this medication was known to cause developmental delays in young children but our only other option would have been open heart surgery. \r\n \r\nThe medication did indeed cause delays. Our son didn't walk or really talk until he was 18 months old. He is somewhat smaller than other kids his age. But Phoenix has never let this stop him. He is now five years old, but through our efforts, the efforts of developmental specialists, and his on tenacity, he is now on the same developmental level as the other kids his age. He is intelligent, happy, and full of energy. He will be starting school in the fall and is already reading. Phoenix never lets anything stop him. If he can't do something, he'll keep trying until he can, never giving up. He is named for the mythical Phoenix that rises from the ashes and we believe his name fits him completely. It's because of his spirit and determination that he is one of my heroes. \r\n \r\nMy other hero is my daughter. Talia was five when Phoenix was born and has never complained about the amount of attention that we had to give him. She is incredible! Instead of being the “typical” big sister and complaining about her “little pest” of a brother, she has always been there to help not only Phoenix, but her mother and I as well. If Phoenix couldn't do something that he wanted to, Talia would be right there patiently helping and teaching him. She is always there to help her mother and me as well. We are blessed everyday by her caring spirit and nature. As she has grown older, she has, if anything, become more of a helpmate to us, as we now have a new infant girl in our lives. Talia loves and cherishes both of her siblings and never complains about having to help, doing it without asking and with a smile on her face. Between my son and daughter, I've learned how to live a good life with determination, caring, and perseverance. This is why they are my heroes.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 San Jose USA 2009-01-24T19:17:18-07:00 Stephanie 914 M 499 CA Stephanie saved a three year old girl from getting run over by a car. The three year old was down the street when Stephanie saw her. There weren't any cars coming, but Stephanie new it wasn't right for a three year old to be standing in the middle of the street. She ran to get the little girl out of a street when a car started coming at full speed. Stephanie grabbed the girl and took her to the house she came from. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 San Carlos USA 2009-01-25T15:33:56-07:00 Naomi 915 D. 500 CA My hero is a girl I know at work. She started there about 6 months ago after being out of work for over a year. She has some developmental and learning differences that make it hard for her to do math and cash registers, so she couldn't get hired in a lot of places, particularly in retail. But she's told me that everyday during that year with the exception of maybe 10 days, she was out looking for work, filling out applications. \r\n\r\nMany times she would fill out applications in the same stores three to four times because when she went back to check with them they would say they had lost it, or when she interviewed with them they would say they had hired someone else, but she would go by the store again later that same week and see the 'help wanted' sign still in the window, so again, she would go in and fill out another application. Finally she was hired by our company, and she's one of the kindest, most compassionate girls I've ever met. \r\n\r\nShe never misses work, she's always helpful to the customers (they love her) and she tries to help her co-workers whenever they need her, though they don't always do the same for her. She may be different in the way she learns, but she is a HERO in the way she acts, trusts, and believes in herself and others. I'm proud to call her a friend.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Lake Havasu City Arizona US 2009-01-30T13:24:23-07:00 My Mother 916 501 Arizona My mother is my hero because she chose me. I am the only adopted child out of four children; all three of my siblings are my mother’s biological children. So why me? You don’t just adopt a child in 1965 with no story. Yet here I am—a part of the most wonderful family you could ever dream for. \r\n\r\nMy mother made me who I am, she taught me right from wrong, she stood proud no matter what silly thing I did. She is my biggest fan and loves me with such pride and joy that I am her hero too. God put this fiery red head right in the middle of a Sicilian family for that reason and I can’t think of a more inspirational hero than my mom. She made me a second chance baby somehow. She needed me and I will never stop needing her. A hero is an earned honor and she earns it every moment of my life. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 2009-02-03T05:13:51-07:00 Ryan 917 502 My hero is my husband Ryan. He is my best friend. \r\n\r\nWe have been together for over 8 years and we also have been apart for a long time because we lived on two different continents before we got married. Ryan is the most wonderful person I have ever met. He is always very committed to what he does – at work and at home. \r\n\r\nPeople like to be around Ryan because of his amazing personality. He is very caring and generous. He is incredibly kind and patient. He respects me and makes me believe in myself. He is a bundle of positive energy. I feel peaceful, comfortable and safe when he is around. \r\n\r\nRyan gave me strength when I faced a long lasting treatment due to health issues, he has been on my side giving hope and support. I can learn a lot from him. I wish I could give back at least some of what he gave me. I want to become a better person, because Ryan shows me every day what a good person is. He makes me so incredibly happy. I appreciate every day we spend together. I am so lucky.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Chennai INDIA 2009-02-05T18:06:22-07:00 Mom 920 504 TN My mom is my hero. There are many people who inspire me but my mom seems to have all the qualities of all those people wrapped into one.\r\n\r\nI was born into a middle class family. My dad and mom worked six days a week close to ten hours every day. My mom woke up at 5am every morning to make breakfast for my dad before he left for work.\r\n\r\nThen my brother and I would wake up and cry that we needed a different breakfast than what my mom had made for our dad. So she would cook our breakfast and then pack our lunches for us to take for school. Once we left she did the laundry, cleaned the house, did the dishes, etc.. Then she would go to work. \r\n\r\nJust to get to work she had to walk two miles to the bus station and then take the bus for an hour. We would come back from school and wait for my mom to get home. She would get home around seven in the evening. I would usually start to whine for dinner, and after a quick fifteen minute rest she would cook dinner for us. After that she would be exhausted and fall sleep just before 10 pm. \r\n\r\nThe sad part is that I never realized how hard and long my mom worked for us. I took her for granted. She has been doing this same routine for more than 20 years, even on the days she was sick. She rarely ate dinner with us because she would wait until we ate to make sure we had enough. One day I packed my bags and I left to USA for my studies. Now I cook on my own and do my own chores it’s hard. Now I realize how hard it was for my mom.\r\n\r\nI have always loved her, but now I respect her for all that she has done for me. She hardly complained about our total lack of appreciation. My mom never quit on us…she worked hard and saved money for our college.\r\n\r\nMy mom is my hero and I will always love her. It has been three years since I last saw her and I cannot wait to get back to her. Thank you mom, for everything. Now it’s time for you to take some rest and let me take care of you. \r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Greatbend United States 2009-02-20T14:17:01-07:00 Sarah 931 R 509 Kansas My hero is my girlfriend, Sarah. She is an overall great person she always tries to do the right thing. She always tries to keep the peace between people. She works as a Certified Nurse's Assistant and truly and deeply cares about the residents. \r\n\r\nSarah is always very forgiving and is always in a good mood. She's just an all together good person and I love her. Sarah is my hero. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 2009-03-01T15:35:09-07:00 Nurses 936 512 My hero is every nurse who works 12 hours straight… \r\nExposing themselves to illness and emotional stress…\r\nSometimes on weekends and holidays…\r\nSometimes through the night… \r\nOften putting their own needs and even some of the needs of their families aside…\r\nTo care for the sick who are sometimes confused, scared, frustrated, sad, angry, and not at their best… \r\nAnd still put their hearts into their work…\r\nMakes an effort to get to know the patients as unique individuals…\r\nShows respect even when the patients lifestyles and values are different from their own…\r\nStrives to give the best care, sometimes in an unsupportive healthcare system…\r\nAnd at the end of the day, sometimes cries for their patients…\r\n\r\nAnd throughout it all finds the greatest satisfaction in a simple thank you now and then.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Los Angeles USA 2009-03-07T10:22:02-07:00 Sonny 939 H. 514 California After clicking nearly all of the values below, I realized how much my former boss, mentor, and friend is a hero to not just myself, but everyone he interacts with. Sonny puts together academic programs at a huge California university campus. \r\n\r\nSonny’s favorite program is in July, and he especially loves the teens who attend on scholarships. He literally will not sleep until he gets everything done. The counselors joked that he was Superman because we never saw him sleep or eat, and when we did, it was a huge deal. Sonny never put himself before any of the campers, counselors or his coworkers. He was a friend, a mentor, and even a father figure to the kids who attended camp. \r\n\r\nNobody ever wanted to disappoint Sonny, and you could go to him with any problem and he would help you with it. Sonny showed everyone respect and was one of the first people in my life to really, really look beyond first impressions and outside appearances. Not only did Sonny do his best to get everything done, and treat the campers like his own kids during the program, he was a fun guy. He was never too busy or serious to joke around with us, and often hung out with the counselors, playing Frisbee and going swimming. \r\n\r\nI could write about Sonny's amazing attributes for days, but I would never be able to express the way he's changed my life. He is my hero, he is a man who taught me how to be more of myself and be proud of that. He is an amazing boss and an even more amazing human being. I am honored to have met and worked with him.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Irvine United States 2009-03-11T17:27:45-06:00 Melissa 941 C. 516 California My hero is my history teacher. She has been an inspiration to so many people. She lives on a pretty meager teacher’s salary yet donates over half of it to charity foundations. She hasn't done anything particularly extraordinary that I know of. But she doesn't have to. Her values and her character make me want to be exactly like her. \r\n\r\nIsn't that what the true meaning of a hero is though? Someone who you aspire to be? A role model? Well, although I don't have a moving story about the fantastic deeds she'd accomplished, I think that just being an extraordinary human being inside is enough to be ranked a hero. Don't you?\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Hancock United States 2009-03-22T02:27:04-06:00 Cassidy 949 M. 517 Maine My hero's name is Cassidy, but I rarely call her that. I call her Marty because she has eyes like Marty Feldman, but only when she puts stress on them to make me laugh. She will do anything to make someone laugh and make the people around her happy. She is absolutely hilarious. I can go to her crying my eyes out and by the time she's done with me I am literally rolling on the floor laughing. \r\n\r\nMarty is also an excellent friend that is very trustworthy. Not only does she make you laugh to feel better, she lets you explain your sadness while making you feel safe while telling her. She will never tell a soul what someone has told her, and she most likely won't even bring it up again. She's like a teddy bear or a diary. Marty lives in the moment and makes the best of life. She understands the power of a smile and the power of friendship. I don't know (and hope I never have to) what I would do without her.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 St. Louis United States 2009-03-23T15:23:30-06:00 Willam 950 M. 518 Missouri My hero was my stepfather Bill. He passed away suddenly three weeks ago. When he was in my life and the life of my two young girls, he was there for us through everything. If I dropped my girls off at the babysitter and they needed medicine or diapers or anything, he would drop whatever he was doing and take it to his pride and joys - his granddaughters. \r\n \r\nMy stepfather never failed us anytime we needed him and he was concerned about who would take care of my mother until the very end. As he was dying, I told him that my mother would be okay and he could let go if he had too. I love him and miss him. Bill, you will always be my hero.\r\n 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 USA 2009-03-24T17:39:14-06:00 Randy 951 519 My hero is a wondrous man named Randy Pausch. His entire life, he has been a symbol of greatness and integrity. Even as he discovered he had cancer, he chose not to mope and dread the inevitable.\r\n\r\nInstead, Randy became an embodiment of hope and eternal optimism. His memory still lives on today and continues to inspire millions, just as he has inspired me to never give up, no matter what. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 2009-03-26T11:19:28-06:00 Great Grandma Condie 954 522 My hero is my great grandma Condie. To her life was always about the people. It was never about what she could get out of it, but about how she could help others and bring sunshine into someone's day. It never mattered who it was, she was always willing to help and visit with a person if only to make them feel important. Even when she was in the nursing home she would still get herself across the hall to talk to a friend who didn't receive any visitors. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Unknown USA 2009-05-04T06:36:52-06:00 Joe 971 A 532 Florida Joe is the president of wigsalon.com, an online website that sells wigs. Over the years as a customer I have seen evidence of Joe's exceptional character and would like to share the latest example with you. Please check out the current e-newsletter in which Joe has included information regarding advances in cancer treatment that will soon make wigs unnecessary - a selfless inclusion that announces a potentially devastating drop in sales for his company. I am so proud to do business with a company that is run by a man who puts people over profits. A fine example, now more than ever! 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Spokane U.S. 2009-06-20T19:29:25-06:00 Richard 991 H. 547 Washington My hero is my grandfather, he has been a real inspiration to me and my brothers. He teaches valuable life lessons and pushes the envelope every day. As a retired orthopedic surgeon he has a lot of time on his hands and doesn't waste one second of it. At 73, he has a lot of life highlights. He's ran every Bloomsday race for 33 years so he started at age 40 when my dad was ten. At 53 he did the Iron Man triathlon, a grueling competition that some 20 year olds can't finish. Now he volunteers at Priest Lake, Idaho and just last year a young boy crashed his dirt bike on one of Priest Lake's infamous gravel roads. (You can imagine some infection there.) He got there in the nick of time and saved that young man's life. So as an 11 year old kid writing about my hero you can see from my writing that my grandfather really is my hero. Thank you for your time. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Mooresville United States 2009-06-30T11:15:51-06:00 Electrical Lineman 1001 551 NC In the winter of 2007, the mid western United States was ravaged by monstrous ice storms. In the days and weeks leading up to the holiday season; teams of electrical lineman left there homes and families to restore power to the people affected by the storms. For weeks at a time, working 100 plus hours each, putting aside their "Merry Christmas," so others may have one, these men sacrificed their own dreams of spending the holidays with their own families to see to it that Santa's way would be lit. 2009-09-12T00:00:19-06:00 1 Janis Steckiel Jsteckiel@gmail.com 1 2009-09-10T08:53:46-06:00 Patrick John Hughes 2701 579 Patrick John Hughes is the father of Patrick Henry Hughes, a member of the University of Louisville band who is blind and unable to walk. Patrick plays the trumpet and his father pushes Patrick in a specially designed wheel-chair, through all the maneuvers that go along with being in a marching band. If I were to write a caption for one of your billboards it would be "Father who follows his son and marches to a different beat." 2009-12-22T10:32:59-07:00 1 Chris Yost ironmanjr1@yahoo.com 2009-12-02T18:30:59-07:00 Vince 2846 E 658 My step dad, me, and three other people where driving to a soccer game when the truck went off the road. He was able to bring the truck back on the road, but even so the back tire blew out. It sent us flipping, and my step dad was thrown from the truck into a ditch. The other guys and I were in the truck and were sitting upside down. Dad crawled out of the ditch with a broken back to get us out of the truck. I will never forget the day my dad became my hero. 2010-01-18T12:41:39-07:00 1 Kathryn Woodrow kathrynwoo@yahoo.com 2010-01-20T08:16:15-07:00 You-The Foundation for a better life 2888 677 When I first began seeing your ad's I wondered who this group was and if it was our tax money being diverted to someone as payback for a political favor. My husband and I decided to look up "The Foundation for a Better Life" and much to my amazement it was someone who just wanted to promote better values to improve society. WOW! Someone doing something on their own dime to make a better America by teaching our children better values. Thank You! It had an even greater impact on me because the ad that followed was how each of your friends are worth $100 if you can just convince them to subscribe to satellite TV. You are doing something very important. I am so pleased that your message is in the mix of some of the less selfless messages out there. We are enjoying the messages. Thank you for teaching us all to be better people and to enjoy the simple things in life. 2010-01-25T16:23:59-07:00 1 Laura Weinman LauraWeinman@gmail.com 1 2010-01-25T12:29:06-07:00 Lindy 2895 M 678 My mother in law has been a true blessing, not only to me, but to immeasurable others. Lindy's entire life has been dedicated to helping others. She helps her family, and she helps complete strangers who become family. Just since I've known her, she has helped send a young man in Haiti to college; she helped a Hispanic mother who was brought to the United States as a child herself secure her citizenship, and encouraged a young mother to look for better employment, and therefore a better life. She has also dedicated herself to making life better for her sisters and their children. She supported the launch of her sister’s business – financially, emotionally, and intellectually. She has bought Christmas presents for her nephew every year because otherwise he would have none. She watches my son unselfishly every day because we can't afford day care, and now has guardianship of her teenage granddaughter. She isn’t someone of great financial means, and she has been through enough drama and pain to have given up. But she doesn’t. I am so grateful for her help, and even more so for her example. 2010-01-25T16:32:14-07:00