On experiencing Father’s Day as…a father!

For 35 years, Father’s Day has meant a special time to reflect on and appreciate my dad — a man deeply devoted to family, who taught me to throw a baseball, to work hard, do good, be nice to others, and to always remember that at the end of the day character is judged by what we do in situations if no one were to ever find out. In the course of four decades, while the modes of celebration have changed, from poorly made macaroni cards and inedible breakfasts in bed, to delicious backyard bbqs and deeper conversations about raising a family and living a fulfilling life, I’ve always seen Father’s Day from the perspective of a son in awe of his father.

On April 29, 2018 that dynamic changed forever, as I became a dad to a beautiful baby boy — Zeke. It was simultaneously the most incredible, joyful, and scariest moment of my life. The immediate sense of responsibility and desire to be there for my son just as my father has been for me was overwhelming.

As I approach my first Father’s Day not only as a son, but now as a dad, I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to love, support, and guide him as my dad has always done for me. These thoughts come into sharper focus during the simple moments that capture my son’s innocence and potential, such as when he’s curled up asleep on my chest, the first true smile with locked eyes, or the late night rocking to soothe a restless cry.

One thing I know for sure: nothing can put me in a better position to help my boy than taking care of my health. One never knows what the future holds, but by taking control of my health and making decisions that support a healthy lifestyle I can certainly stack the deck in my favor to be around longer to celebrate my son’s many milestones and achievements, and to be his rock during the challenges that surely lie ahead.

Every day, and today in particular, I am thankful to work for a company and with so many dedicated colleagues who are making it easier than ever for fathers (and all adults) across the globe to learn important information about their bodies that can help them live longer, healthier lives, leaving more time for the people we love. Wishing a very happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there, to those celebrating with family, and to those remembering the ones they loved most.