The World’s Greatest Dad and His Incredible Running Devotion to his Disabled Son
Sweat and Tears in River Oaks
By Shelby Hodge //
Photography Lizette Soto
What: Vita-Living “Pearls of Wisdom” gala
Where: River Oaks Country Club
PC Moment: Surely a top candidate for world’s greatest dad, Dick Hoyt made a lasting impression on the crowd of 200 that gathered in support of Vita-Living as he shared his experience of raising a quadriplegic son with cerebral palsy. He inspired the dinner crowd with his story of the sweat and tears behind the more than 1,000 races and triathlons he has competed in while pushing his son in a custom-made wheelchair.
His message for all, including those with disabilities: “Yes, you can.” It was brought home through the photos he shared of he and his son competing in races around the world.
Under the guidance of chairs Chaz and Danny Klaes and honorary chairs Robin and Tany Klaes, the evening raised close to $125,000 for the non-profit that provides lifelong services, housing and support for both children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Who: Vita-Living CEO Joe Cooper, board chairman Chris Mehling, Dana Kervin, Rick Gardner, Diane and Charlie Rhoads, Rusty Sewell, Duncan Hasell, Elizabeth and Greg Kutka, Catherine and David Cobb, Sarabeth Melton and Pierce Bush.
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