My Dad :: My Hero
My wonderful father, Dr. Bill McHenry, is an extraordinary individual who has made a profound impact on my life and the lives of those around him. His dedication to his family, community, and grandchildren is truly inspiring, and his recent receipt of the Presidential Award for Mentorship is a well-deserved recognition of his tireless efforts.
As a father, he has been a constant presence in my life and that of my brother, attending every recital, practice, and tournament. My dad was even the coach of my softball team. Every Sunday, we would go to Starbucks to catch up with the latest events. My dad continues to show up for my sons, Jack and Jacob, at their school events and sports activities, demonstrating his unwavering support and love. My dad even went to Jacob’s Donuts with Dad program.
My father’s commitment to his family is unparalleled, and his influence has shaped me into the person I am today.
Beyond his dedication to family, my dad has also shared his passion for exploration and learning with us in the best ways. He has taken us on incredible journeys around the world, creating unforgettable memories and teaching us the value of curiosity and adventure. I miss the days where my mom or I would hold the map while my dad figured out the best route. I even miss the Motown tunes we would sing and dance to in the car while we drove hours to get to our destination. We enjoyed getting lost in new places with him. We got lost a lot. That has been a highlight of my life, and I cherish the laughter and experiences we’ve shared.
One of my favorite memories is from my kindergarten class, where my dad conducted a chemistry demonstration that left us all in awe. I know at least one of my classmates became a chemist. My dad was such an amazing chemist, his lab had a collapsible external wall. His ability to make learning fun and accessible is a gift, and his generosity and support have inspired me to pursue all of my dreams.
My dad’s Presidential Award for Mentorship is a testament to his impact on countless lives, including mine and my boys. He embodies the spirit of loving mentorship, and I am grateful to have him as my role model and father. I aspire to emulate his qualities and make him proud one day. Thank you, Dad, for being an extraordinary father, mentor, and inspiration. I love you.
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