“I love you, Katelyn.” He would never let me leave without hugging me and saying those words. He knew how important it was to show those you love affection, because who knows when it could be the last. Growing up, I learned so much from my father. This man was always there when anyone needed him. He wasn’t afraid of showing emotion. I learned how to be tough, but also vulnerable at the same time. No matter what challenges he faced, he always had hope. He could always bring me back up when I was down. The lesson that has impacted me the most from my father, was to never forget to tell someone you love them. This will always stay with me. I have a love for helping others and our environment. In fact, that is what I’m wanting to do as a career! My twin brother was faced with cerebral palsy, brain damage, and several other issues at birth. Growing up around him, I’ve found a passion for helping others. My family also unfortunately faced financial issues for the majority of my life. Because of this, I never wanted to see people suffer or go through not having basic necessities. I knew that I wanted to help people. Part of this most likely came from my father. If him and I saw a homeless person on the street, he would buy them a meal or groceries and we’d take it to them. Once we began facing issues, we were unable to do so, but I was inspired. I then began volunteering at a soup kitchen throughout high school. It brought so much joy to my heart seeing the thankfulness and love on people’s faces. I never want to stop seeing that. I’ve also always had a passion for the outdoors! I believe a lot of this has come from my father as well. He raised me to love nature, and I would love to help our earth, along with other people! Throughout the past 19 years, I have been faced with many obstacles, but I’ve also overcome them. At 8 years old, a tornado destroyed my family’s home. After this, we become very financially unstable. We oftentimes lacked electricity and running water, had empty pantries and gas tanks, and more. This was very challenging. To make it even more complicated, at 11 years old, I began having various types of seizures, everyday. This was a very difficult 5 years. However, my father never quit pushing doctors and putting my health before his. I then had brain surgery, and he helped me relearn so many things. Because of these challenges, I learned to be grateful for everything and everyday I’m given. The most heart wrenching challenge I’ve ever had to face is my father passing. I can’t explain how painful this was. However, I know I’m going to make him proud. Finally, my senior year of high school, my mother walked out. I was given the responsibility of going to school, taking care of my brother, and paying for a car, house, groceries, etc. It’s been a very difficult situation, however I have learned to find the good in it. I overcame these obstacles because of faith and love from others. My father, grandmother, friends, and teachers were always there for me. I will always get by on account of loyalty, being optimistic, love, and thankfulness. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). I fully believe my father, along with other fallen officers, are finally living in peace, as they deserve.