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Sep 20, 2008

"True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost,but the urge to serve others at whatever cost" --Arthur Ashe

Father & Son Heroes

The story of Dick and Rick Hoyt is an inspirational love story, based on the philosophy "you can!" Although Rick was born with cerebral palsy, his parents were determined to treat him just like their other boys, despite medical professionals who counseled them otherwise. Consequently, Rick grew up engaging and intelligent; and when he was 12 years old even found his voice with the help of the 'Hope Machine', a computer system that enabled him to talk. In high school father and son ran their first charity road race to help a paralyzed teenager. After that race Rick told his dad, "When I'm running it feels like my disability disappears." Now, at 66 and 44 years old, Dick has pushed, pulled, and carried his son on 950 races, including 60 marathons, and 6 Ironman Triathlons. Asked about his heroic actions, Dick says simply, "I'm just myself and I love my family."