Andrew

This year I have written a post about each of my children during their birthday week. Andrew turned 34 on Sept 19th. When he first came into the world, he forever changed me as a person. Becoming a father for the first time was frightening, joyful, overwhelming, delightful, and exhausting, all at the same time. I have such precious memories of our little tow-headed fella running around the backyard, playing on our swing set, or seeing him in the stands with Ellen during my coaching days.

As Andrew grew, we came to know his intelligence, compassion, and strong sense of advocacy. Early on he was a friend to all. He was constantly drawn to helping others. For one of his birthdays, he did a fundraiser for families displaced by Hurricane Katrina instead of asking for presents. He has always been known for his big heart.

His commitment to others might be best exemplified by his honesty and vulnerability in sharing his struggles with his mental health. While it has been difficult to watch him wrestle with anxiety and depression brought on by OCD, I am truly inspired by how he has turned his trials and difficulties into a platform for helping others. Over the past several years, he has used his experiences to light the way for people all around the globe to better understand their own journey and how to get meaningful and transformative support and treatment.

Andrew and his wonderful wife, Lauren, have been in Germany for nearly two years now. Together, they are building a life that embraces inclusivity and celebrates diversity. Andrew continues to have a positive influence on those around him as a program administrator for CO University, as a social media spokesperson for OCD awareness, and as a disc golf trainer for young people in Berlin. I am so proud of the man he has become and the impact he is making.