I wouldn’t be the man that I am today without my incredible Dad. Nor would I be the man that I am today without my two incredible sons Eli (www.elisarmy.com) and Isaiah. I’ve also recently been blessed with the addition of two beautiful step daughters.

I am honored to know an exclusive group of fathers that have to live through the reality of childhood cancer. These men have to navigate a life that has been turned completely upside down. Trying to find a way to be there for their families while they balance their work demands. Being strong for their wives while the stresses of the situation tear at their own guts. Making sacrifices, financially and otherwise, to do whatever it takes to make their child well. Trying to be there for their other children, both physically and emotionally. Most of all, hugging and kissing their babies while telling them that everything is going to be okay, and in their hearts having no idea if that is true at all.

This is a brotherhood I never thought I would experience, but it is one of real loyalty and strength and it has provided me with amazing bonds that I am so thankful for. I am also thankful for the incredible lessons that my own son taught me. His strength, courage, and resolute faith in enduring such hardship for God’s will to be done impacted so many people around the world. It is my highest honor to be known as “Eli’s Dad.” I miss you every day, Buddy.

Happy Father’s Day to everyone, but especially to those that have given up so much of themselves to help their children Beat Cancer.

Aaron Horn is the President of BeatCancerToday.org, a nonprofit that raises funds for childhood cancer research and patient/family support programs and Chairman of the Board of Candlelighters NYC, a nonprofit that helps families get through the difficult times when a child is diagnosed with and being treated for cancer, “…because kids can’t fight cancer alone!” #elisarmy