I’m one of the lucky ones.

I don’t know what it is like not having a father figure in my life.

Many do.

I am grateful for my wonderful relationship with my father.

I have many childhood memories that I’m fond of.

I praise him constantly, and let him know how thankful I am.

My dad was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis while I was in high school.

It was devastating news, as our family owned our own home improvement business.

He was the rock that held it all together. He worked until he couldn’t anymore.

Sadly, my brother and I were both much too young to take over the business at the time.

My dad is still a fighter today. He continues treatments which will only slow down the progression of his RA.

I love seeing photos of me and my dad together. I miss when I was a young child sometimes, such a carefree heart with nothing to worry about.

I miss riding in his old 79’ Ford pickup truck with the manual roll-down windows; him letting me drive the riding lawn mower on his lap; all the camping trips to Lake Murray and catching my first fish.

I am truly grateful for all the things he has taught me. I would not be half of who I am today without him.

Dad, you are so loved. I look forward to making more memories with you. Happy Father’s Day!