My dad was one of the best people I have ever known. He was an exceptional mentor, incredibly selfless, and the definition of a humble person. Although he passed away from Acute Myeloid Leukemia on July 19, 2017, his memory continues to live on through the people he impacted. I would like to believe that I carry his compassionate spirit with me as I navigate life without him. I have always strived to become even half the person he was while continuing to keep his legacy alive through my own actions. In 2012, my dad worked in Lewis County, Kentucky, as a Special Education teacher. His students loved him, and he loved them just as deeply. While also serving as the head baseball coach, he noticed that the Special Education programs did not receive the same recognition or funding as other programs, such as baseball or football. That never sat right with him, so he decided to do something about it. In the spring of that year, he organized the first Autism Awareness 5K, with all proceeds going directly to the Special Education programs. The event was a huge success. It brought the community together while advocating for students who deserved more support and recognition. The event continued for four more years until my dad moved to Rowan County Senior High School. After moving to Rowan County, my dad noticed the same issue occurring there. At the time, his life became hectic as he focused on becoming the head baseball coach at RCSHS. He placed the Autism Awareness event on the back burner, assuming he would eventually bring it back. However, in May 2017, that assumption turned into hope when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Acute Myeloid Leukemia. After a two-month battle, he passed away, leaving behind a legacy that would be carried on by the people who loved him most. Growing up without my dad was not easy, but I pushed through life’s challenges because I knew his influence would always stay with me. As I have gotten older, I realized I did not want him to only be remembered through stories, but through acts of compassion that continue helping others. As a family, we have created several legacy events in his honor, ranging from scholarships to baseball tournaments, all focused on keeping that special part of him alive. This year, as a senior in high school, I decided to create an event that would not only honor my dad’s legacy but also give back to the community he cared about so deeply. On April 11, 2026, I held the first “Run, Walk, Remember Keith Prater 5K.” Through ticket sales, t-shirt purchases, and donations, the event raised approximately $2,200 for the Special Education programs in Rowan County schools. Seeing my community come together for my dad nearly ten years after his passing made me realize the lasting impact that compassion, humility, and service can have on others. My dad taught me that compassion is not just about feeling sympathy for people. It is about taking action to help others feel seen, supported, and valued. I exemplify compassion by continuing the work he started and by using my experiences to connect with others in meaningful ways. In the future, I hope to work in pediatrics, specifically with children with disabilities. I believe my experiences have prepared me to better understand the patience, empathy, and dedication these children deserve every day. By carrying forward the values my dad lived by, I hope to continue making a positive difference in the lives of others for years to come.