On our first day in Olean we stopped by the Rehab Center's building dedicated to my grandpa. The building dedication was after his death, but he was told about it before his passing. Even though I wasn't able to be at the dedication ceremony, the PowerPoint slideshow was emailed, and there were some quotes from my grandpa.
Grandpa became very involved with the Rehab Center after my aunt, Barbie, was born. There weren't sufficient services in their area for her, and he was a pioneer in changing that and was honored throughout his life for his contribution.
One quote of his that resonated with me was:
"You always want the best for your kids, and taking a leadership role was a great way for me to ensure it."
It reminds me of a quote I had posted in my classroom by Gandhi - "Be the change you want to see in the world." As a teacher I constantly saw parents blaming others for their child's failures, blaming schools, teachers, other students..... As a parent it is our responsibility to take a leadership role in our kids' lives and ensure their success.
What a life and so glad we will always be able to celebrate his successes! Way to go gramps!
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