Your heroes are right in front of you...

I got a report of a fight on the playground while I was away at a district meeting. Standard protocols ensue, call to parents, and a promise to investigate upon my return to my office.

Upon my return, I find on of the two 3rd grade boys who went at each other over who was faster in a foot race. On the surface, a typical scuffle right?

While waiting for Dad to arrive, Seth (name changed) tells me about his Dad's return from surgery, how excited he is to go camping so that they can get out of the shelter for a spell, and how he's having trouble with his Mom. She's been knocking him down "...a lot more than usual." Now...I have to call the police.

I'm informed that Dad is up front, Seth leaves, quickly returning with tears in his eyes and a staff member in tow, paramedics have been called, Dad's having a heart attack in the front office.

Contrary to stern advice, Dad refuses transport to the hospital, citing trouble with his wife hitting the kids - so police arrive and Seth tells me now Mom's really gonna go off, while Dad is informed that he needs to follow through with a restraining order by 9 a.m. the following morning.

Dad rises and walks little sister and Seth out the door, refusing a ride or a bus pass. Seth smiles at me and promises to do better.

I check on him the next morning and he asks me about anger management classes. "I've got a lot going on Mr. Sharp, maybe I need some extra help. I want to take care of my family."

Seth, buddy, you're my hero.

Onward!

Dr. J

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