"My dad is the Father of the Century"
Categories: Just for dads, Health & safety
I'm glad I was working at home when I came across this story; most of my co-workers are not the sorts who think very highly of a grown man crying. This is a pretty cool story of a man whose love for his son drove him -- literally -- to Herculean feats of strength, endurance, and courage. If you're the sort who tears up easily, make sure you have a box of tissue handy before reading this or watching the accompanying video.Rick Hoyt was strangled by umbilical cord during birth, leaving him unable to control his limbs. Doctors told his parents were told he'd be a vegetable for life and that they should put him in an institution. His parents were a little too stubborn for that, however. When he was 11, he got a computer that he could control with his head, allowing him to communicate for the first time. When a classmate was paralyzed and the school organized a run to raise money for him, Rick typed out "Dad, I want to do that."
That was the start of it all. Dick Hoyt, out of shape and not used to running more than a mile, tried his best to push his son the five miles. "I was sore for two weeks," he says. That day changed everything, however. Rick told him "Dad, when we were running, It felt like I wasn't disabled anymore!" Who could forget that? Not Dick Hoyt. Since then, Team Hoyt has done more than 200 triathalons, dozens of marathons, and even six 15-hour Ironman Races in Hawaii. Tomorrow, they'll run/swim/bike another Ironman together.
My dad was a pretty awesome guy. He did a lot for his kids and for others. But I have to give Dick Hoyt credit. As his son Rick said, "No question about it, my dad is the Father of the Century." Read the article, watch the video, and be prepared to buy more Kleenex.
Recent Posts
- Sean Duffy Announces Run for Congress (7/09/2009)
- Baby Names, Male MidWives, and More - Links We Love (7/09/2009)
- Teen Auctions Mom's Naked Photos (7/09/2009)
- Evian's Roller-Skating Babies Ad - Cute or Creepy? (7/09/2009)
- Have You Named a Guardian for Your Child? (7/09/2009)
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
LB 10-20-2006 @ 3:29PM
Roger, thanks for posting this. I am amazed by this wonderful father and son. The Hoyts are deeply touching and inspirational.Mt Hoyt is a true innovator and tireless champion for Human Rights. Be sure to check out the TeamHoyt website.
On a lighter note, regarding the kleenex, Roger you weren't kidding but I'd add you will need them even if you are the sort of person who only tears up when you are pregnant or have a fever, like me.
Reply
ann adams 10-20-2006 @ 4:08PM
A friend sent me the video a while back. You're right - I couldn't watch it without tears.
Reply
margalit 10-20-2006 @ 5:03PM
I've seen Dick pushing Ricky in the Boston Marathon numerous times. EVERY single time, the crowd goes totally wild. The roars and cheers are so wonderful and Ricky just totally eats it up with huge smiles and waves. They look like they are having the time of their life.
Reply
Shani 10-20-2006 @ 5:19PM
Like margalit, I have seen the Hoyts numerous times at the Boston Marathon. They are an amazing inspiration and never failed to bring a tear and a cheer from everyone!
Reply
Kristin 10-21-2006 @ 1:17AM
I think this is the most beautiful thing I have seen in my life. Ever.
Reply
April 10-21-2006 @ 11:16PM
This is beautiful. I hope and pray that if I am ever faced with a challenge like that, that I will put my children first as this father did (does!)
Reply