My Son Danny

It seems like everyday we get approached by someone who just wants to spend a moment with me. I've been hugged by old ladies, given high-fives to twenty-somethings, and even got a kiss from a woman with tears in her eyes. Today, it was a man about Grandpa's age who approached Mommy while we were grocery shopping. He wanted her to know about his son, Danny.

Danny was a 22 year-old firefighter in Chicago. He was a big man, with big muscles, a big stature, and an even bigger heart. He wanted to do something with his extra time (he would work 2 days, and then have 4 days off) so he decided he wanted to play with kids. But since he was an EMT, why not play with special kids. Kids like me who need a little extra attention sometimes.

Danny was killed in a freak ATV accident the day before he was to start his new job. But according to his Dad, his last words to him was about how excited he was to start his new job. His second job playing with the kids.

So when Danny's dad saw me in the grocery aisle, he was reminded of his son. And that is how his Daddy thinks of Danny. His son who is now playing with the kids. But he's not playing with them in Chicago, he's playing with them somewhere special. Just like Danny.