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SPECIAL HEROES
If YOU know of someone who is a
Special Hero, please nominate
them on
our Nominations page.
IF YOU KNOW OF SOMEONE WHO
WOULD ENJOY OUR WEBSITE,
Unfortunately, despite what many Americans would like to believe in the 21st century, there are major discrepancies among ethnic groups' access to and quality of health care. There are also differences in how and when folks seek medical attention.
In this program approximately 8,000 women and family members have received access to health care and health-related education.
Too few folks with such abilities get involved on a full-time basis.
May she be an inspiration to others!
Most 15 year old boys simply dream of dates, sports, video games, and the like. Hopefully, William's dream catches on, with others following suit and helping to prove that their generation is one that we can be proud of.
Her mother recovered. The ex-boyfriend was arrested. But Alexis suffered serious injuries. Fortunately, she survived, although she did lose an eye. Now, fitted with a prosthetic one, she learning to cope once again with health issues.
Alicia Sorohan If someone says that you 'fight like an old lady', you can be proud! Thanks to Alicia Sorohan, a grandmother from Brisbane, Australia.
Alicia was camping with others by Cape York. She
woke up, early morning, to hear a man screaming.
Bill Anderson Lots of us 'spin our wheels', but none for such a great cause, perhaps, than Bill Anderson, who is in his prime of life at 78. Bill served his country, the U.S.A. and the world, when he served during World War II as a paratrooper. Again, during the Korean War, Mr. Anderson served his nation and others. Bill still is concerned with others. This time, those who are hungry and homeless. Having grown up during the Depression, he knows what hunger and poverty is about. Bill has earned attention for bicycling from Canada to Mexico. Now, Bill is cycling from the San Diego, CA. across the country to Jacksonville Beach, FL. His journey will hopefully do more than set a record for the oldest person to bike across the country. Bill wants to raise lots of money for the Crossroads Mission in Yuma. Services for the homeless are the targeted beneficiaries of Bill's adventure.
Join us in following Bill's journey, by logging on
to: www.crossroadsmission.org
Peter Terbush It is often in a crisis that a Special Hero displays extraordinary heroism. Such was the case in June of 1999 when Peter Turbush saved the life of his friend, Kerry Pyle.
These two men and others were at Yosemite National
Park. Peter had been rock climbing for most of his life. At 22, and a
college student, he was climbing with friends and holding Pyle's
rope, as Pyle descended. Suddenly there was a lot of noise and rocks
began to fall. Actually, they were huge boulders.
Angel Flight America What do you get when you mix over 4,000 pilots with those in need of medical assistance? Angel Flight America. Over 4,000 Special Heroes who happen to be pilots, donate their time to help sick patients reach necessary medical care that would otherwise be literally 'out-of-reach' for them. Patients are those requiring treatment vital to their living but who do not have the financial or other resources to reach that all important medical treatment.
There are 6 chapters of Angel Flight America with
the oldest one being Angel Flight West.
We tend to take for granted being close to medical
facilities, perhaps, but these pilots and their associates do not.
Dean Chapman There are blind heroes in literature, but nothing beats real life heroes. Just ask Tess Gray, an Australian dance teacher.
Tess had been swimming at Mollymook Beach when she
ran into distress. She was not close to shore and in great danger of
drowning. Luckily for her, Dean was nearby. Dean helped bring Tess to the shore's safety, but then took off. Luckily, a newspaper helped bring Dean together with Tess and her family.
Song Gyeong-tae Often, one who cannot see, sees the most.
Song GHyeong-tae, now in his 40's, became blind
after a grenade exploded, while he was in the army. He has a masters
degree in social welfare and has received a number of awards,
including the 2000 Presidential Award for his accomplishments, since
his disability. His walk was to raise recognition for senior gukga yugongja, an elderly person who had been recognized for service to the state. However, over 100,00 of these fine folks were living in poverty or close to it. During his journey, Song would participate in charity events.
Catherine Pisacane How much is a smile worth? To a child, at least, everything. And to Catherine Pisacane, spreading smiles, to those in desperate need of one, is a mission worth pursuing. In November 2003, Catherine read of 3 brothers who were starved by their N.J. adoptive parents. She read that an officer who helped to save the boys, gave one of them a stuffed animal to hold. And how much that little animal meant to that abused child.
Thus, was born 'Project Smile'. It now operates in
states throughout New England. A case in point is that all patrol
members of the RI State Police will have a stuffed animal with them. She also shows us that one person can make a difference. Are you one of those people who will rise to the occasion?
Gary Frye Sometimes, a hero is one who gives his best under strenuous conditions and fails. But it is in the trying that the hero's bravery and perserverence and grace show. In January of 2004, Senior Airman Gary Frye, a reservist, was driving with his brother, at night when they saw a car on its roof. The Ford Escort station wagon apparently skidded on a downward part of the street and rolled 2 times. Gilbert Pina, 18, the driver was thrown from the car and pinned under it.
Airman Frye, a former paramedic, began CPR on the
bleeding teenager, after Gary's brother and another man lifeted the
car for Gary to get the teen out to safety. For what seemed like an
eternity to those watching, but was 15 minutes, Airman Frye tried to
resucitate the young man. But Gilbert died. San Antonio, Texas, Mayor Edward Garza gave Airman Frye a 2004 Crossroads Award.
NOTE: Earlier this week, a 17 year old, fine young
man, 'L.J.' Salavatore, a friend of ours died in a car crash, when a
strange car purposely drove in front of his and slammed on their
brakes. L.J. swerved to avoid a crash and instead, his car flipped
multiple times. - Our thoughts and prayers are with all teens who die
such a senseless and untimely death.
John Wells State employees too often take heat for the few who slack off. Well, John Wells, a Caltrans, CA., maintenance worker not only showed how dedicated a state worker can be, but how heroic one can be. In January, 2004, John was working when he noticed a home on fire. He quickly learned that there were small children in the home. 4 children who were watching television, unaware of the fire. A fifth child was upstairs, trying to put out the fire that he started while playing with a lighter. John got the children to his truck and then contacted help. Fortunately, a fire unit had been in the area and was able to respond quickly. John received a letter of appreciation from Governor Schwarzenegger.
J. Gordon Cooney, Jr. and Michael L. Banks
Crime fighting duos usually conjur images of Batman
and Robin or Holmes and Watson. Not 2 partners of a multi-million,
highly respected law firm.
Thompson knew that he did not kill New Orleans
businessman, Ray Liuzza in 1984. But he was found guilty of murder
based upon eyewitness testimony and not much else. - In 1988, Cooney
and Banks, associates at the time, wanted to try a death penalty
case. They initially believed that Thompson was probably guilty, but
that he did not deserve to die. Eventually, they found evidence of
prosecutor and judicial conduct that should not have happened. Weeks
before he was to die, a detective found that recovered blood from the
crime scene which could prove his innocence was withheld from the
defense at the original trial. It also seemed that a witness against
Thompson was in fact the murderer. Unfortunately, that man was shot
to death during a crime. Another witness who had left the area out of
fear, returned to testify that the murderer that she saw did not fit
Thompson's description. Cooney and Banks spent over 1 and 1/2 million dollars in defense of this man, on a pro bono (free of charge) basis. Many lawyers and staff from their law firm joined the efforts to free Mr. Thompson. And he was eventually freed. How often do we say that justice is blind or that the wealthy and powerful care little for the average man's plight? - Well, in this case, we tip our hats to Mr. Cooney and Mr. Banks, both, true, Special Heroes.
Sam Boyden Especially now with gas prices making our wallets hurt, we should perhaps focus on what is not hurting us: some defective tires. And we have Sam Boyden to thank fo rthat. Most of us have heard of the famous Firestone tire problem, where approximately 6 1/2/ million ATX and Wilderness tires were recalled. - What you might not know is that Sam was largely responsible for seeing that this happened. Mr. Boyden was an employee at State Farm Insurance where he was a researcher. He noticed a pattern of accidents involving Firestone ATX tires on Ford Explorers. It was high. He contacted the National Highway Safety Administration. But nothing happened. A car buff, himself, Sam knew that this problem was unusual and alarming. He continued pressing the NHSA and eventually the matter was investigated. Sam even testified before Congress. But is he a hero? Not if you ask him. But if you ask those whose lives are the better and safer for it, the answer is a resounding, 'Yes'.
3 Doors Down Who among the over 30-group, at least, has not at least once thought of rock and roll musicians as a bunch of 'druggies' obsessed with sex, money, and most of all, their own pleasures?
Well, Brad Arnold, Chris
Henderson, and Matt Roberst, of 3 Doors Down have just re-proved the
fallacy of the above for at least many/most of the rock and rollers. So when they come to an area near you, why not support their efforts?
Mike Gorman We often speak of police officers and firefighters being willing 'to risk life and limb' for others. Nowhere is this more ironic or true than of Mike Gorman, a 30-something with quite an ambition to help others, while dismissing his own problems.
Mike was born with a limb
problem that resulted in a transtibial amputation and a prosthesis. Not one to 'lie down' and take things easy, Mike decided to become a tractor trailer driver. But his artificial limb, again seemed to be against him. Mike fought for his right to drive and proved that he could do so, safely. So, he drove 'big rigs' for a while. After years as a police dispatcher, Mr. Gorman began work at Kean University where he was eventually allowed to apply for the police department. Overcoming more medical problems, Mike graduated 4th in his class of 35 cadets. He works on campus at Kean University. Along the way, Mike has saved people's lives, and delivered babies. He is also, still a paramedic. And, above all else, a true inspiration.
Deanna Micheli America's abundance or even over-abundance is obvious to many of and the world. Yet, we tend to think of it in terms of only food or consumer products. But we overlook the abundance of medical supplies that we have and take for granted, which is not available in many parts of the world. Deanna Micheli, while a nurse at the Fargo's Merit Care Hospital, realized that surplus items such as gloves, catheters, and bandages were being disposed of, regularly. She also realized that many around the world needed these items to save lives and 'just' treat the injured. With the help of other medical professionals, Deanna created HERO, approximately 6 years ago. It has provided almost 20 tons of medical supplies that would have been disposed of, to mostly medical missions, worldwide. With volunteers for staff, the efforts have been remarkable. The teamwork, incredible. But what about needs in the USA? HERO helps some local efforts, as well. And this year, HERO will move to a large facility, thanks to the generosity of a lumberyard. Perhaps we can all learn to conserve or donate our excesses to others, rather than dispose of them, needlessly.
Dr. Guillermo de Venecia 'I can see clearly now..' are words from a popular song. They are also words, many, many people can say thanks to the incredible dedication and donations of an opthamologist who saw a need that others were willing to ingnore, and he filled it! A University of Wisconsin Hospital opthamologist for decades, Dr. de Venecia, since 1979, spent vacations performing free cataract surgery in the Philippines. He found the cause more than worthwhile, especially knowing that without his services, many would become blind. In 2000, he helped create a clinic near Manila, where in less than 6 months, over 800 surgeries were performed. He was named the 2000 SMS Physician Citizen of the Year by the State Medical Society of Wisconsin. Now retired, Dr. de Venecia is not one to rest on his laurels. Over 70, he and his wife, a nurse spend months in the Philippines. He donated his eye clinic to the Tzu Chi Foundation headquartered in Asia. Thank you, Dr. de Venecia for giving the gift of sight to so many. May others see the value of your efforts and choose to replicate them.
Randy Marsman Builders are usually strong people. But Randy Marsman, a builder, also had a strong will and a strong sense of values.
July 22, 2002, He was driving
in Michigan when he saw a catastrophe in the making. Duane Ely's
pickup truck was hit from behind and sent off the road to the side.
There, the truck burst into flames that were spreading on the ground
nearby due to gasoline leakage. Luckily Randy suffered only minor injuries. Ely had some neck and back injuries, but had his life.
Kathy Vavrick-O'Brien Imagine surviving SURVIVOR MARQUESAS long enough to walk away with $80,000. Now imagine that you are a real estate agent who could just relax a bit now that the show is over and spend some quality time with your son. Now, imagine that as a strong-willed woman, you decide to help other women. Kathy has established the REAL FOUNDATION. It is designed to help build confidence and self-esteem in women who lack both. Her foundation will give money to nonprofit organizations to provide services to women in need. Thanks for showing other women that you can be strong, nurturing, and giving, Ms. Vavrick-O'Brien!
Dave Foreman Action movies. The stuff that many of us are drawn to. We see actors play heroes, in the midst of explosions at sea and elsewhere. But nothing can truly prepare you for the real thing, which is what Coast Guard rescuer, Dave Foreman discovered in March 2004. Near Virgina, a tanker with Filipino workers exploded! Ethanol seemed everywhere. And that is where Dave stepped-in. Rather, he flew in with a rescue helicopter. The workers were covered in oil and very slippery to hold onto. But Mr. Foreman and others with him kept at it. 3 people died, 18 others were missing. And Mr. Foreman himself was hospitalized for oil fume inhalation. The next time you see Stallone or another action hero in the movies or tv, remember that everyday, real-life heroes do this work without being paid millions of dollars and without production crews or stunt people.
James Smit
They say that you should 'take
the plunge' when you find something that you want to do. Last year, the group had almost 3,000 particpants who were willing to plunge into icy cold water, raising money by signing up at least $1,000 each in pledges. James has raised more than $500,00 and hopes to break the $1 million mark within the next 8 years.
Although James has a niece with
Downs Syndrome, the event has a broader appeal for him. He knows the
impact that the Special Olympics has on the lives of the participants
and their families and friends. Hats-off to this public servant who continues serving others in his free time. (By the way, his wife, Joanne, helps with the events as well, allowing for some very special time together.)
Mike O'Callaghan Public service is a too-often used phrase. One too-often used to describe, self-serving folks who are seeking self-promotion. Not so, in the instance of Mike O'Callaghan, former Governor of Neveda. Speak of humble beginnings, Mike was raised on a Minnesota farm before moving to Wisconsin where his mother was a teacher in a one-room school. At 16, he joined the US Marines. He worked in a factory. He was awarded the Silver Star for heroism during the Korean War where he was an Army soldier. He was also given a Purple Heart. In fact, Mike lost his lower left leg as a result of war injuries. He then became a teacher, inspiring many. Eventually, Mr. O'Callaghan became the director of his state's health and welfare dept. He was a regional director for the US Office of Emergency Preparedness. Mr. O'Callaghan became Nevada's governor. He fought for the rights of those often ignored. He visited hospitals and other amputees to give messages of hope and inspiration.
Mr. O'Callaghan passed away on
March 5, 2004, but his legacy lives on.
Maurice Ashley
Role models come in all sizes,
races, and nationalities. Take for instane, Maurice Ashley. Born in
Jamaica in 1966, he moved with his family to Brooklyn, NY at 12.
Yet, he was still unable to
make his high school chess team. But with additional studying and
practice, Maurice became a National Master within years. In 1993, he
became an International Master. Maurice created the Harlem Chess Center in a Police Athletic League building. He knew that chess not only stimulated minds, but also trained them. He knew chess builds confidence, skills, and discipline. He also knew that kids would find it to be an exciting alternative to regular sports. And the kids, who have gone there in droves, have found it to be all of the above. Plus, their team, despite being in a tough area, has proven itself superior to school teams where much more money and privilege have been the norm. He has created training materials for other chess players and been a commentator for some of the world's best-known chess matches.
Truly a bright man who can
serve as a great inspiration for blacks, others, immigrants, young
people, and more.
Douglas Parker
We often take them for granted:
the US Postal Worker. Yet, they provide vital services for us, daily. In August of 2003, this former firefighter and oil driller, then a California resident, was on his mail route. He smelled smoke and saw flames burst from bushes outside a home. A woman from the home told him that her brothers and pet were inside. The family escaped unharmed, while Mr. Parker took a garden hose and doused the fire while waiting for the fire department to arrive for 'the finishing touches'.
Anthony Zeigler
Just as 'quitting is not an
option' is a great phrase to live by, so is 'retirement is not an option'. He has brought discipline and more importantly, motivation to his students. We offer a strong and proud salute to this fine 'gentleman and an officer'!
Annie Smith
Who says that race matters or
that you should only donate an organ when dead or to a close friend
or relative? DyNata Mack, a 20-year-young black woman and waitress watched her mother die in 2001 of congenital kidney disease. DyNata had also suffered with this disease since she was 11 years old. After years of peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, things were grim. She needed a transplant soon if she was to live. DyNata mentioned her condition and needs to a co-worker at the Eat 'n Park restaurant where she worked. Kris Smith, also 20, then relayed his co-worker's crisis to his mother who was a registered nurse at a facility where transplant patients go for post-surgery care. Despite never having met her, Annie Smith knew that she had to at least see whether or not she could be a kidney donor match for Ms. Mack. And she was! The surgery went well and now, Ms. Mack hopes to be able to resume her education and become a dialysis nurse.
Zell Kravinsky Who says that wealthy people have no heart? Certainly not those who are familiar with Zell Kravinsky, multi-millionaire! But they might be correct if they said he was missing a kidney. Zell recently donated one of his kidneys to a total stranger, because it was"the moral thing to do". Although he is caucasian, he asked that his kidney go to a poor African-American. His kidney was in fact given to a female at the Albert Einstein Medical Center. Zell Kravinsky has also donated a large portion of his entire wealth. Hats off to you, sir! May you be an inspiration to others.
Chris Dudley Basketball stars can in fact be great role models. Just take Chris Dudley, for example.
This Yale graduate has been
giving back to those less fortunate than he, as well as to his
sport's fans, for some time. Chris received the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award. In 1997, he received a USA Today award for being one of the 'Most Caring Athletes'. - He gave 50 homeless children a shopping 'spree' in order to have a great Christams. - He created 'Doin' Right With Dudley' that inspired young people to do community projects. The Dudley Foundation was created to provide to provide education, advocacy, and support diabetes research.
Chris Dudley scores big time
with us for all that he has given back to his fans and others!
SPECIAL HEROES needs
your nominations/suggestions for Special Heros to be included here.
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