My dad was my best friend.
Not in a way that blurred the lines, he knew exactly when to be Dad, when to be my mentor, and when to just be the guy who sat beside me and made me laugh. He wore every one of those roles with ease, with intention, and with the biggest heart I’ve ever known.
When I stood at his funeral on December 20th, 2019, I closed with words I’ll carry the rest of my life: “I know Heart Disease runs in our family, but I also know my Dad. And I know I’m probably going to forever tell my kids…Papa just loved everyone so much, his heart just couldn’t keep up with all of the love he had for us.”
That is how I choose to remember him. But I cannot stay there. I need to do more.
Heart Disease didn’t just take my dad. It took two of his sisters. Two of his brothers. And his Dad when he was just three years old. This disease has run through my family like a thief for generations, and I have spent enough time grieving. Now, I want to do something about it. I know my Dad would at least expect me to TRY and do something about it.
I am participating in the American Heart Association Heart Walk, and I am asking you to stand with me. I am also participating in Executives with Heart.
My faith tells me nothing is wasted…not grief, not love, and not loss. My dad believed deeply that we are all part of a bigger plan and that we are accountable for how we live. He would never ask me to sit still in the face of something I could fight. He would pull me aside, put his arm around me, and say, “Do the right thing, even if nobody is looking.”
This is me trying to do what I believe is the right thing. This is me honoring five people I loved more than words, by refusing to let this disease keep winning.
Your gift, any amount, goes directly toward research, education, and lifesaving breakthroughs that give other families a different outcome than mine. If my story moved you a little, please consider giving today. One dollar, may not seem like much in today’s world, but one dollar in a positive direction is something powerful.
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My Dad would want this. Be me proud of me for stepping forward. Be humbled by the giving of others. More than anything, I know he would want this to bring all of us together.
Thank you, from the bottom of a very full heart. My Father was the best man I have ever met…I just got so lucky to call him “Dad”.
With gratitude and love,
Andy Nordine
In memory of Lee Nordine — Man of Faith, Husband, Father, Mentor, Best Friend.