My dad’s life wasn’t easy. He struggled, and sometimes that meant hurting the people who loved him most, but he also had a heart that was big, wild, and full of light. He loved superheroes and video games. He never lost the childlike part of himself. His laugh could fill a room, and his sense of humor was loud and fun. He was completely his own “Skiptastic” self. He wasn’t always able to be there in the ways he wanted to. Mental illness and addiction have a cruel way of stealing time and presence. But the love he had for his family was never doubted. He was always so proud to be my dad, and I know it meant more to him than he was able to show during the darker seasons of his life.
We’ll be planning a celebration of life at Lake Pierre, one of the places we spent time together when I was young, surrounded by the people who knew him best. We’ll tell stories, share memories, and celebrate his life. This fundraiser will go toward cremation, memorial costs, and celebration of life costs, as well as easing the burden on our family during this difficult season. I’d love to donate any remaining funds to organizations focused on mental health, addiction recovery, and support for people living with paralysis—causes that can help prevent others from going through what my dad did.
Any donations or shares would help so much. Above that, please keep our family in your prayers, and if you knew my dad and have a photo, a story, or a memory, I would really love for you to share it. Thank you for helping me honor him in the way he deserves. I want people to remember him at his best—the loving father, brother, son, and the light he truly was at his core.
With love,
Myah
