HAPPY FATHER'S DAY ROB WHEDBEE!!

OK, I’m a little late posting this, but it still needs to be said.

From the moment his first child was born, Rob Whedbee loved being a father. When Justin was born, he loved spending time with his baby boy, and could not wait to get home from work to spend time with him. He never minded that his wife insisted he get up with him during the night, to calm his cries or get him a bottle. Rob always says Justin was such an easy child. As he made the transition from baby to little boy, Justin was a good child…well-behaved on public outings, inquisitive about the world, and able to entertain himself when his parents made the long drive to Destin, Florida, their favorite vacation place. Being the first grandchild, Justin never lacked for love or attention, but he loved hanging out with his dad, who taught him to fish and encouraged his curiosity.

When Brittany was born almost four years later, once again the family was ecstatic, especially to have a girl in the family. The day after her birth, the news from the doctor was not good. He believed Brittany was born with Down syndrome, and they would have to do tests. Rob was upset, as any parent would be, but he thought about it and decided they would do whatever was necessary to give his little girl a good life. Through hysterics, his wife, Lisa, asked, “How do we get out of this?” She meant it. Rob calmly responded, “Lisa, I don’t think this is something we can or should get out of.” Right then, Rob stepped up to the plate, and lovingly hugged his little girl. Despite escalating medical problems, and Lisa’s refusal to accept Brittany, Rob was always there, and proudly took his little girl out and about with him. He once said she was going to be the first Miss America with Down syndrome.

After the attempt on his life, Rob became a single father. His parents gave up their retirement years to help him out as best they could, but Rob was there caring for them, watching them grow, and loving them. Of course, there were problems…Justin had some rough years, but they made it through. Brittany required total care, but Rob was always there, and never complained about the sacrifices he had made to meet his children’s needs.

It’s been 19 years since Lisa abandoned her kids. My personal opinion: They are better off.

I just wanted to recognize a good man who is an incredible father.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY, ROB!