Raising a child with special needs is a challenging yet rewarding task, and this father’s bold act of love for his son will melt your heart.
One father wanted to bring honor to his baby who was born with Down syndrome who was struggling with a variety of medical issues, even to the point of being hospitalized.
And in a bold act of faith, the way this father stepped up to help his son and raise awareness for Down syndrome will bring tears to your eyes.
This father decided to run in the New York City Marathon with a goal of 3 hours and 21 minutes.
The point wasn’t to just “run” to raise money for his son, but for others who have Down syndrome.
Everything was going as planned, except the day of the marathon the dad was injured before the race even started.
And, during the time he could have been training he was with his son who was put in the hospital.
But this tough father didn’t give up.
This dad was determined to honor his son, so he pressed on.
And on the day of the marathon, with his son out of the hospital, he chose to give it his all.
LifeSite News reported:
“The main thing I want to do is to remind people that it’s not about setting limits on yourself – it’s about pushing past them,” he said. “That’s a big thing for anyone who has Down syndrome. We struggle with this every day, as people try to limit Wyatt or just see him as a diagnosis. For me, running a 3:21 was a big deal. I had to really work for it, and as you can see I didn’t make it. But I went all-out pushing for it.”
By mile 20, Ketchell said that he was in serious pain, but he texted his wife to let her know that he was coming to get his son, to carry him across the finish line. She handed Wyatt to him at mile 26.”
As onlookers watched this injured dad, determined to run in honor of his precious son, still press on despite the pain – they were touched.
But then as he carried his son across the finish line – the reaction was so powerful it brought the crowd to tears.
The love a parent has for a child is inherent.
And it’s a beautiful thing to witness a father so in love with his little boy, that he was willing to push himself to honor his tiny baby boy for the world to see.
So next time you see a child with special needs, don’t pity them!
Children with special needs are truly some of the most remarkable people walking this earth – they love without limits, and remind us daily on how to be kind and compassionate.
And moms, if you have friends who are raising a child with special needs, be sure to check in on them and see if you can help.
Even offering to run errands, pick up groceries, or babysit for a night is truly a gift for parents who are in desperate need of respite.
Be sure to check out our past articles on things to never say to a mom raising a child with special needs, and also helpful tips to help your child with special needs survive the Christmas season and thrive!
How has the story of this dad running in honor of his son impacted you?
What are some practical ways you could help those in your life raising a child with special needs?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
And to stay current on the latest Mommy Underground stories, follow us on Facebook and be sure to like and share our posts!