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“A Role Model of the Third Kind”

Would you consider a quadraplegic a role model? Most individuals would not, for a plethora of reasons, but a young man of 12 years, Alec Ockaskis, of Comstock Park, Michigan, considers a 12 year quadraplegic friend a role model, and writes an award winning essay explaining why.

“My dad said, ‘I don’t think that’s a role model’ and argued with my mom that I wouldn’t want to be a quadriplegic.”

“We were arguing,” acknowledged Alec’s mom, Kathy, but was quick to point out that good things usually happen when she mixes it up with husband Todd.

While they were still discussing Alec’s premise, he walked off and began to type. And he came up with this as a first paragraph:

“There are many types of role models. The ones that you want to be just like, the ones that help you when you are down, and last and certainly not least, the role models who teach you to appreciate life and persevere.”

Alec went on to write that “A neighbor of mine, Jonathan, is a role model of the third kind. ... He cannot participate in many activities that a normal boy would love. ... However, what I admire about him is that he participates in everything he can.”

Comstock Park boy makes case for quadriplegic neighbor as role model

Young Alec Ockaskis, I think, is also a role model of the third kind.

Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on 06/07 at 10:37 AM