I'm one of the lucky few who grew up with a great role model--my dad. My dad has been through Hell and back and through Hell, again (literally). Yet, he still gives my family his all! When I was a baby, my dad had cancer in his throat, due to chewing tobacco. He was able to recover and I hear the many stories of him traveling to Hershey and numerous doctors appointments. I don't remember that stage, as I was so little. However, I do remember getting pulled out of school, because he had a stroke. Through the eyes of a little eight year old girl sitting in the hospital room, I can still see my dad laying in the bed and watching the monitor stop multiple times. I watched my dad die three times and come back again each time. There were so many hardships my dad went through, and I am so thankful that God placed me with a dad like him.

He may have a disability, but he isn't disabled in anyway. He is so strong, and I found my strength through him. He isn't only a survivor of cancer and a warrior as he pushed through a stroke, but he is also my number one supporter. He has been there for me throughout my 21 years, and there is nothing I could be more thankful for. He came to every sporting event, each modeling gig I've had, and he has always had my back. Without him, I wouldn't be me.

He is the first man I ever loved, and he has shown me the perfect example of a gentlemen. He really has given me high expectations. Someday, I hope I find a man like him--one that invests 100 percent of himself into his family; is strong, supportive, and a gentlemen.

There are times when thoughts enter my head of days that I could have been without a dad, and to me, that's terrifying. I couldn't imagine not having someone like him in my life. Now that I am older, I understand how easy it would have been for him to let go, especially after spending months in a hospital room. He never thought of giving up, he just continued to fight. I know that whatever I face, I can get through it; because he has shown me many and many times again that I can push through whatever is dealt to me and come back on top. He is my number one fan, a true inspiration. He is the only person I look up to. He is one of my best friends.

Some days, I wonder what it would be like if he was a 'normal' dad. A dad that didn't need help getting words out...A dad that could use both of his arms...A dad that could play baseball with us kids...Then I realize, I would rather him be like this than a 'normal' dad. There may be somethings that I miss out on, but I'm okay with that. He is still here! He was given this battle, and I am here supporting him like he always has for me.

No matter where life takes me, I know I will always have my dad.