by Debora Spadafora

Created on: April 23, 2009

My Brother ... my inspiration

The dictionary defines a hero as someone who is a great man, a champion, brave, courageous, daring and undaunted. This great man is my brother. He is my inspiration.

Sixteen years ago his only son was born with problems, which later resulted in both physical and mental handicaps. This was his second child, the first being a girl two years younger. Having a son who is both mentally and physically handicapped put quite a strain on his marriage and later resulted in divorce. My brother dedicated his life to loving and caring for his handicapped son, sacrificing everything else life had to offer. His life revolved around his son, ensuring he was loved, protected and given all the necessary medical care he needed to ensure a happy and normal lifestyle. For sixteen years he performed these duties more diligently than anyone I have ever known, with no complaints.

His ex-wife remarried and was experiencing difficulties in her abusive marriage. She went to my brother for advice and he encouraged her to seek refuge in his home. She was afraid of what her husband may do to their daughter and declined his help. A few days later, his ex-wife was murdered brutally by her husband and my brother became a single father to both his children. Her mother's death left an indelible mark on his daughter and one he worked really hard to resolve. After family counseling and therapy for his daughter he decided she needed a female role model and found her a big sister'. She became more and more adjusted to everyday life and her big sister' made a positive impact on her life.

As his son grew, the strain of having to lift him in and out of bed became very damaging to my brother's health and resulted in severe spinal injuries. He now had to cope with his own pain and countless therapy sessions yet he continued his daily routine of taking care of his son and daughter with no complaints.

My brother is a single father with two children who are enjoying a normal lifestyle filled with love and caring beyond belief. This is his reward for all the sacrifices he made over the years. My brother is a simple person with simple needs, a true humanitarian and a dedicated father with values that are overwhelming. My brother personifies the true meaning of the word hero. He has inspired many to believe in themselves and anything is possible.

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