Inspiration
Inspiration can come from many different forms. I often see or hear of stories through the internet that inspire me to want to be better in one way or another. Many times I am inspired by something I see at Vitality….someone getting their first handstand hold or a kipping pullup or finally figuring out the kip for Toes 2 Bar. But what has inspired me lately is Luke Pegram. This kid is incredible, if you haven't seen him running around the gym after the 9:30a class, you need to make it a point to check this little dude out. Since I first met him, he has had issues with his spine and has been through more adversity than most of us will go through in our lifetime. He has gone through having to wear a brace, that I can only imagine is extremely uncomfortable, to now having a cast that will help his spine grow straight. There is no doubt in my mind that he will get through this and will grow up having the ability to do all the things that we all take for granted everyday of our lives. Through all this, he does it with a smile on his face and without a care in the world. This adversity will help shape him as he gets older and my bet is that he is going to be one tough kid. Derrick and Heather will probably take me off their Christmas list for bragging on them for how great of parents they are but that is a risk I will take:) Over the years, I have seen Derrick and Heather, always at Luke's side, ubelievably positive through this all. They have been extremely strong and have been determined to help Luke get through these tough times. I have no doubt that they have their struggles with this and at times I am sure they are frustrated at the helplessness of the situation.
Heather and Derrick have been such an inspiration for everyone here at Vitality. They show us that through all tough times, the way you approach it and let it affect you is so important. They are showing Max and Luke the way to face adversity. They could easily complain and feel sorry for the hand they were dealt and no one would fault them for that. However, by handling this adversity the way they are, they are giving their kids life lessons that they will take with them forever. We are all very lucky to have the Pegram's here at Vitality. They make me want to be a better dad and an all around better person. If only the world could have more Pegram's in it….we would all be better off. However, no matter how much I love Heather and Derrick, the hazing will continue here at Vitlaity for them:)