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Your Everyday Heroes

The following hero stories have been tagged with Sacrifice

Nicholas T

My beautiful boy Nicholas was born at 32 weeks. A normal pregnancy is 40. Even though he was not that early he only weighed 2 pounds 4 ounces. Other than being little he was perfect. Then 10 days later tragedy hit. He had Necrotizing Enterocolitis which is a gastrointestinal disease that mostly affects premature infants. NEC involves infection and inflammation that causes destruction of th... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Kenda N

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 c... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Alan T

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 childr... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Charlie B

My son is an amazing young man. We brought his paternal grandparents into our home when grandpap was diagnosed with Alzheimers. He and his sisters worked tirelessly to cook and care for the grandparents while I attended school and worked two part time jobs. When he was only 16, his youngest sister was diagnosed with a very serious cancer. Immediately his father, my husband, took off with anothe... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Cynthia D

My wife is my hero. Over the past seventeen years, including the final decade of my career as a Navy SEAL, she has tirelessly carried the far greater burden in our family. Cindy is a living example of whole-soul sacrifice. She has earned two Masters' Degrees, built a teaching career, raised three amazing children, provided for her disabled mother's needs, often managed our household alone, a... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Carol M.

Carol is the director of P.A.C.T. (Partner Against Crime Team Mentoring Program) where she connects mentors with youths on probation who need a positive influence in an attempt to turn their life around. She treats the troubled youngsters with respect and dignity. Long hours are selflessly dedicated to keep the program alive and effective. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Angela R.

Looking through the values I saw so many that described my mom, starting with ambition and going down the list. Not one but all describe my mother. She is truly a hero in my eyes, not like Hercules, but one that a lot of people would take for granted everyday. A mom that dedicates her life to her children. My dad is gone in the war and she is trying to go back to college and still raise two gir... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Bertha P.

The hero is my mom. She has been caring for my dad who has been sick for many years. Her commitment to her has been an example to many people. Just recently she has spent seven days sleeping on a chair by his hospital bed. My dad is 67 and she is 72. Although she has been through so much with my father's health, she has never complained and maintains a spirit of a true hero. She has made many s... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Jean And Al T.

I am nominating Al and Jean, now in their 70s, for the utter compassion (as well as courage, determination, and commitment, and sacrifice) they have shown in caring for their now 29-year-old grandson, who is paralyzed from the chest down, with severe cerebral palsy and mental retardation. They have loved and nurtured him tenderly (while taking care of all of his daily needs including catherizat... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Aladi J.

My hero is my aunt. She took care of me from the time when I was nine months old. She died on the recently after a prolonged illness. She was my best friend and confidant. Her life of love and sacrifice for others around her, even in the midst of scarcity and lack, has taught me to love, sacrifice for and respect others deeply. I miss her greatly. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Debay D.

I nominate my sister, Debay, as my hero. Three years ago I was diagnosed with Leukemia and she was there for me. Not only did she travel to Montreal from the Dominican Republic to be with me through my first and most terrifying induction treatment of chemo, but when the time came for me to find a donor for bone marrow she was there. My whole family came forward for testing, which in itself is s... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Lori Ann Cheryl M.

I'd like to nominate my mother as my hero. My mom has showed me what sacrifice, perseverance and love are all about by living as a great selfless model. She dropped out of high school to raise me... alone, and had to put much of her dreams on hold. When I was six, my little brother died of S.I.D.S. After that my mom went back and got her GED, and followed it up with a Child Psychology degree. I... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Michael C.

My hero is just a simple man. Michael is the one who made a lot of sacrifice to his career since he was just 16 years old. He didn't know how to enjoy life; how to spend time with friends in those days because he had too many dreams to fulfill. He’s been focused on his dreams since he was really young.Instead, he knows how to take care of others in a tender way. He spoke with his mum very... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Rebecca P.

Sacrifice: Rebecca, a woman endured an awesome sacrifice to make other women feel special. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, she contacted a church in Louisiana that was sheltering hurricane victims. She called and spoke with several women, determined to do something special for each. She got sizes and favorite colors and promised each a package. What came next was amazing. Not only did she go ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Maida A.

Fourteen years ago my mom brought my brother and me to the United States from our war torn country of Bosnia. She spoke no English, had no money and was a single mom. She also has a hearing disability which she knew would make it difficult for her to learn the language. However, she wanted to provide my brother and me with the best education and the best life we could ever have. When we first c... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Michele M.

I was in kidney failure and on dialysis for a year when a stranger replied to a posting on a living donor web site. She was 35, had four kids, a husband, and was willing to give me a kidney. We were cross-matched, and she was able to donate her kidney to me. In May of last year, we met for the first time. In August she donated not only a kidney, but bone marrow to me. I had been given roughly s... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Carolee H.

At three, Carolee was diagnosed with cancer that was considered incurable. Thinking she wouldn’t live, doctors operated, but damaged muscle around her kidney. Her parents were told to make her comfortable until she died. She didn’t die, but lives to this day with much pain.Expecting her third child, she was diagnosed with rare heart disease. Nearly losing her life, she chose to have... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Bill G.

Bill has been sent overseas to Kuwait with the Navy reserves to protect troops and supplies in the war against terror. He has given up his time, family, and safety in order to help this country. He has made so many sacrifices for the right thing, and it's all worth it. When he has time that he isn't working or sleeping, he still does his best to help out over here, send us e-mails, talk on the ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Ajay A.

Ajay is a legend of all time. He is an eminent social worker, an engineer, painter, singer, elocutionist, administrator, business tycoon, computer professional, write, journalist, actor, sportsman and more. Can you believe it? He has donated his blood 30 times! He is not yet tired and his high ambitions in life always attract me. He is my all-time favourite hero. He works with deaf students. He... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Shawn Lee C.

I love my mom with all my heart and she has a great soul and spirit. She has been through a lot in life but she never gives up. People try to bring her down but she stays above them. My mother is my inspiration and hope. I love her so much and appreciate her so much. I just wish there was a way to show her how much I appreciate all she does for me and my siblings. I don't know what I would do w... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Terrance S

My hero is my dad. He is in the military. He is deployed for the second time. I miss him and love him. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Betty B.

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 inspire... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Carter S

My Darling Son is My HeroA Poem to him, a soldier....To live so boldly, to dare and overcomeDaily dealings take a path that surprises...saddensLeaving God to make sense of the total sum To rise to necessity, giving yourself for usYelling commands follow down mazes of mayhemNo hindsight needed, beyond the sandy chaos To take the moment, and make it count for allBreathlessly regrouping, searching... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Nancy (Mom) R

At the time of my birth it was found that I had or should I say have a condition known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta and my mother was told I would not live beyond the age of three years. Well, looking back on my life now, at the age of forty-nine, I have to say that I got much of my strength from my mother. She was always there for me growing up and continues to be here for me, even today. Whe... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Frederick O

Frederick O., a Vanderbilt medical student, has drummed up support from numerous global health experts, high school, college and middle school students in the US to raise funds to build and run a clinic in the rural village of Lwala, Kenya where he grew up. The clinic provides care for a village with HIV prevalence of over 25%. In its first 5 months of operation, over 5,000 patients have been s... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Jared M

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, ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

David N

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. Western NY is infamous for having severe winter weath... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

John K

My husband, John, is my hero because he never stops giving. He does everything in his power to provide for our family without complaint. As he faces his upcoming deployment to Afghanistan he carries a positive and uplifting attitude that enables us to look forward. Without him, our lives would be bleak. He gives of himself and his resources to those around him in need, and to those who are u... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Cliff &Amp; Shannon F

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. Without much money or high-paying jobs, Cliff and Shannon struggle mightily to provide for these children but t... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Ben F

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. Perhaps the greatest challenge and chance for heroism has come ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Titus C

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. Titus 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 ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Paul B

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. Perhaps 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... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Greg L

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 ne... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Ana Cristina G.V. D.

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 ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Unknown Hero

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... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Javier O.

Javier is my inspiration. Whenever I feel down it seems like I get a text message or a phone call that just brightens my day. He is always cheerful and happy and willing to help others through their time of need, even when he is having a rough time. He never has an unkind word to say to anyone and he just plain makes me smile all the time. Best of all - he likes me for me and not for who he thi... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Monica F.

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 li... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

My Mother

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 the... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Kelsie B.

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 ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Kelly L.

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 ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Ann H.

My Grandmother was, and still is, my hero. She gave me all the love and care she could. I love her, and miss her dearly. I love you Grammie. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Sarah H.

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. Sh... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Jim R.

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.The 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 ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Rose D.

My grandmother is my hero. She was a proud woman that spoke her mind and put on no false pretenses. She was incredibly strong and passionate about her home and the nature around it. You either loved her or hated her...and I loved her. She instilled in me the values of her times and I can't say how much that meant. Sadly she passed away, but I carry her in my heart every day. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Leina R.

My mom is amazing to me. She taught me about strength, hard work, and discipline. She became a single parent when I was about 11. I’m the oldest of four children. She worked very hard to provide the best for all of us. She cleaned the Catholic school we went to, so that we could go to school there. She never complained about anything, she just did it. She taught us about sticking together... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Luella H.

My mom, Luella H., who at 86 years young is today, the President of the local seniors’ organization and family matriarch. She loved learning and was my foremost teacher. She gave birth to 12 children in 16 years! She is a farmer’s wife and a church activist, yet still acquired her GED at 69. Her family tradition was that the “girls” went to school through 9th grade (the ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

My Best Friend's Mom

My best friend’s mom is the person that exemplifies so many wonderful values such as courage, helping others, humility, love, and faith. She was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 8 years old. She had double mastectomies, chemo, radiation…lost her hair, was sick and all the things so many women go through. She went into remission, it came back in other areas and she underwent m... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Phyllis W.

This is about my baby sister, Phyllis W. The 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 on... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Susan B.

A mother. A wife. A friend. Generous beyond expectation and committed to all of the things important in her life.Susan 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.If anyone she knew had a need-however great or small—... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Richard F.

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 y... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Earl R.

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... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Kelly K.

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.Let me start by giving you a brief history of Kelly's caring life. It really started from her birt... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Mrs. L

Mrs. L is a second grade teacher at Hill Elementary School in Lincoln, NE. She is a positive person who never forgets a name. She respects each of her students and works hard to highlight their talents. Throughout the school year, Mrs. L and her husband take two students at a time for a special Saturday morning. They pick the children up from their homes and take them for the morning to a s... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Deanna M.

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. She has volunteered for Hospice, he... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Hope W.

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. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Michael O

Mike was my first boyfriend of six years; he died four years ago on August 8, 2004, at the young age of 20. He was tubing down a river with his friends when someone yelled "waterfall"! They all managed to get out of the river and onto shore except one of his friends. She fell in the river right before the falls and was clinging to a large rock. Mike was a VERY strong swimmer and jumpe... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Bob R

In l988, Bob R. halted a very lucrative career to follow his passion of helping others. He started a non-profit organization, called Renaissance Enterprises, to bring professional music and the arts to our nations forgotten seniors, the developmentally disabled, the handicapped, and others. This is not a glamorous endeavor and he has dedicated his entire life to this! read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Terry F

Terry F. lost his leg to cancer and then his life while walking across Canada to raise money for cancer research. Every year thousands of people all over the world walk to honour Terry and raise money in his name. The walk takes place during September. He was a young man with a vision that lives today. His courage inspires many people, he was a hero to me and I honour him in my life every day. ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Anna N

My grandmother is my hero. During World War II, she put off her education in order to serve as a nurse in the Navy. Later, she went on to get her Master's degree at Columbia University- something not many women were doing at the time. Instead of choosing a more lucrative career, she chose to come home to our rural Vermont community and serve as a Social Worker, helping the children of our count... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Bettye J

My mom is my hero. She wasn't just my mom; she was my best friend and confidant. When I was pregnant and alone overseas I would wake up in the middle of the night; unable to get back to sleep, I would watch a movie. Usually, it was a Disney movie. I remember one night watching “Dumbo.” As always, it pulled at my heartstrings; but on this particular night it overwhelmed me with an in... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

John H

This is my father. I am sure that all children think that their father is their hero but mine is extraordinary. When I was two years old, in 1963, my mother died of bone cancer. She left my father not only heartbroken but the father of five children. My extended family rallied together and made the decision that the children would live with various family members because my father was a tra... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Daniel G

My hero was the first born to a migrant share cropper and wife. His father passed away when he was six and he was left to help his mother with three younger sisters and one on the way. The youngest of the three died and when the baby was born, she died as well. Both died of starvation. He fought to live each day, helping his mother and sisters. Finally, when he turned 18 he joined the Army... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Vicky S.

My hero is my wife, Vicky. On August 26th, 1984 at 8:00 pm sharp, we were seating on a park bench across from our local church. We were both 15 years old. Vicky was nervous but not even close to how nervous I was: I was about to ask her out for the first time.I joined the military academy in Mexico and I became an officer. Those were days of difficult armed conflict and many of my classmates di... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

American Red Cross

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. Some 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. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Ray K.

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 l... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Rachel S.

My hero is Rachel Scott. She was killed in the Columbine shooting, the first one killed. Before she died, she always made sure to included everyone and anybody in whatever she did. She helped numerous kids before they hurt themselves. Because of her example, I am in the program Rachel's Challenge. Compassion, pass it on. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Monte R.

My husband is my hero. We married in 1991. We had nothing but happiness and love for one another. After a few years of working different jobs, my husband decided we needed to do more to be successful and achieve our goals. In 1998, he decided to go to college, get a degree, and find a job that he enjoyed that could also support his family. In 1999 we had our first child, a beautiful baby g... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Daniel D

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 stude... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Joyce M.

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... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

A.J. V.

He has been my best friend since fourth grade and has always stuck up for me. He makes me laugh when I am in the worst mood. He makes the unpopular kids at school feel like they are really important. I wish I could strive to be more like A.J. because he has really made a difference in many people's lives, including mine. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Cheryl R.

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. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Monte R.

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... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Jeff M

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... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Brandyn G.

My hero is my brother. Although he is no longer alive he is still my hero. He wasn’t my real brother, he was actually my foster brother but he treated me as if I was his “real” sister all the same. He passed away at the age of seventeen. At the time he was working a full time job and getting his GED at the same time. He was told that all he had to do to get out of foster care ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Colin F.

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 popul... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Larry S.

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.Larry 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 ... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Bob B.

Bob was killed at war in October 1967. Bob was not only my older brother, he was my idol. A friend to many, smart, athletic, active volunteer, good-looking. An ROTC student in college, he responded to his country's call and stood tall and sacrificed for me and all of us just two months before coming home. We mourn and love forever, but are strengthened by his example. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Julie O.

My Aunt Julie has been my hero for as long as I can remember. She has raised me up to respect others and myself and take on full responsibility for my own life. Not only did she raise me, but she has also raised my father and three other children. Although we were not her own, she gave up her leisurely time, to watch over and protect. My Aunt never had children of her own, but this meant she on... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Fred M

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. Once a month, he gives over 100 kids a bath, shaves their head to keep them more clean, hands out whatever used clot... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Phoenix And Talia D.

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. I arrived at the hospital just as my wife was being wheeled o... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Vince D.

My hero is my father. My mother left my father when my two brothers and I were very little. My father single handedly raised all three of us and put us through four years of college. Today, we are all successful career oriented individuals who have him to thank. He has provided me with the courage to face anything without fear of failure and reminded me that you can succeed against all odds... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Mom

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.I 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.Then my brother and I would wake up and cry that we needed a diff... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Nurses

My hero is every nurse who works 12 hours straight… Exposing themselves to illness and emotional stress…Sometimes on weekends and holidays…Sometimes through the night… Often putting their own needs and even some of the needs of their families aside…To care for the sick who are sometimes confused, scared, frustrated, sad, angry, and not at their best… And stil... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Karen

Karen is sick with an "incurable" form of cancer. Her now ex-husband lost all their money in day trading. One of her two adopted children has a learning disability that may never allow him to live alone. Still, instead of feeling sorry for herself, a victim, or helpless, Karen started her own business and is taking care of herself and her children. She fights off her daily fears and m... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Melissa C.

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. Isn't that what the true meaning of a hero is though? So... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Willam M.

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. My stepfather never failed us anytime... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Randy

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.Instead, 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. read more→
Values: SACRIFICE

Electrical Lineman

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 sac... read more→
Values: SACRIFICE