I’m a lucky girl. With Father’s Day upon us, it reminds me just how blessed I am to have had not one, but two dads mold me into the woman I am today.
James Redmond
My dad is a shining example of hard work. He arrived in the United States in his late 20s as an Irish immigrant with nothing more than the American dream. The “easy way” is not a phrase in his vocabulary. With patience, skill and tenacity, he built a successful construction company, which allowed my brothers and I to have the very best life possible. Because of him, I was given opportunities denied by many. He makes me very proud to be Irish and even prouder to call myself his daughter. My dad taught me that nothing in this life is impossible—all it takes is a little hard work. I love you, Dad.
Nick Martin
Father’s Day is tough for me this year after the passing of my stepfather to cancer March 30, as it also precedes his birthday on June 16. Even as a writer, it’s hard for me to put into words just how much Nicky meant to me. He came into our lives during the angstiest of my teenage years and gave me a reason to smile. The instant connection between him and my mother restored my faith in true love—and I will always be thankful for that. Even at his sickest, he still cracked jokes and made us laugh. Nicky was the kindest, gentlest soul I’ve ever met—and the funniest, too. He is and forever will be our English bulldog; tough and sweet with the most adorable English accent. I love and miss you everyday Nickadoodles, but know you’re in a better place now. I know you’re watching over us and that we’ll see you again one day.
Erin Redmond, Dispatch sports editor
