Uphill Both Ways: A Father’s Sacrifice

In the years since I was a child, I’ve come to learn that my father did not, in fact, have to walk to school uphill, both ways, barefoot, in the snow. Actually, he’s from a small island in the Atlantic where there never is snow, and most of the mountains are far outside the town where he grew up.

What I’ve also realized, though, is that even if my dad never endured that frozen, barefoot, geography-defying walk to and from school, he did sacrifice time and again so that I could have opportunities that he did not. On this Father’s Day, I want to say “thank you” to my dad for everything he’s done for me.

At EARN, I’ve had the honor of witnessing the sacrifices our Savers have made for their children. One story in particular sticks out in my mind this Father’s Day.

Hugo came to EARN so that he could get help saving for tutoring that his son Ricardo so desperately needed. Ricardo’s grades had dipped below passing, and he was in danger of having to stay back a year. That might not seem like a huge deal, but for a father working the graveyard shift and then some to send Ricardo to a private school, an extra year of school would mean an extra cost that he couldn’t bear. It was critical that Ricardo receive the tutoring he needed to pass.

This challenge was really only one in a series that could have made life very different for Hugo’s family. When Ricardo was just four years old, Hugo suffered a violent attack and was left in a coma, near death. It took Hugo years to recover, and as soon as he was able, he went back to work so he could save enough money to ensure Ricardo was on the path to college.

You see, Hugo never got to finish college, but he’s fighting hard to make sure Ricardo has that opportunity. EARN has been able to match Hugo’s savings, and I’m happy to say that Ricardo got the tutoring he needed and passed the sixth grade! There’s no doubt that he’s on the path to college.

When I was younger, Father’s Day didn’t hold the same meaning or importance it does today. I attribute that in part to hearing stories like Hugo’s. When I see the sacrifices he’s made for Ricardo, it truly helps me realize what being a parent is about. It makes me realize how much my father (and my mom, too!) has done for me. Most of all, it makes me grateful for all the parents out there that are helping to create better lives for their children.

In fact, I’d love to hear more inspiring stories about amazing fathers. If you feel inspired, leave a note about a father you know (either your own or someone else’s) that is doing amazing things. Happy Father’s Day everyone!

Matt Silva
Levi Strauss Communiations Fellow