About two years after I was born my dad was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, a disease that eats all the discs in your back. There is no cure but surgery and he has already had it and it made it worse. We used to do things all the time, but because of the disease he's no longer able and he has to use a wheelchair. He has pain nonstop, but I am so amazed at how he thinks of others more than he does himself. He'll help you however he can. He takes me places even though it hurts him so bad, and he plays games with me. He’s not able to work but he takes time to home school me. You know how it is when you don't feel good; you just don't want to do anything. But my dad does so much I could never tell you all he does for me. I wished you could have seen the birthday cake he made me it looked exactly like Scooby Doo since I’m a fan. It took him 3 hours to make it and he couldn’t even sit in his wheelchair, he had to use a kitchen chair. I am so thankful that God gave me this dad. This is why my dad is the absolute greatest dad in the whole world. – Krystal, 15, USA (PenPal #6986)

My dad is the bravest dad in the world because he stands up for everything he believes in - his family himself and his country. He helped the people in New Orleans and has been in the Navy for 16 years and the army for 1 after 9-11.Then he was in the Army National Guard for 2 years. My father is not just a great serviceman, he's a great father. His wife, my mom died in 2004 so he acted as a dad and a mom for my brother and I. We love him very much! He is the bravest man I have ever met. I am blessed he is my father! – Julie, 15, Rhode Island

My dad is the bravest dad in the whole world because he has to be more than just a dad in my family. My mom died three years ago and he has taken on more responsibilities than I could've ever known someone could take on. He is a father to four of us all very involved in school, church, and sports constantly attending to all things possible. Not only does he go to all of our events, but also he makes them very special and memorable. He is always there for me to talk to, to look to for advice, and a shoulder to cry on. My dad is beyond what words can describe as the best dad in the world and has taken life head on with courage, confidence, and motivation to live to his utmost potential. I love you dad and never forget how special you are to me! Thanks for being you - THE BRAVEST DAD THERE COULD EVER BE!! – Macey, 15, Minnesota