Everyday Heroes
The new Everyday Heroes video series shows how Knights make a remarkable difference in the lives of others. Click here to see an overview of the program. Help us share the stories of all the “Everyday Heroes” — with friends, family and your whole community:
• First, like the videos and share your thoughts in the comment section
• Next, share the links to the video via email or mention it in conversation with friends
• Finally, share a link with your friends on social media and ask others to do the same
Mike Sweeney was a five-time American League All-Star first baseman who served as the captain of the Kansas City Royals. The Sporting News voted Sweeney the "Good Guy in Sports" in both 2003 and 2004. Sweeney is a committed man of faith and a Knight of Columbus. He shares his powerful testimony of faith, character and the true meaning of fatherhood.
James Wolf was known for his infectious smile, his commitment to serving others, and his love for the Knights of Columbus. As a recent high school graduate, he even inspired his father, Bob, to become a Knight. Shortly after becoming a Knight, James joined the Army. Sent to Iraq with the 52nd Engineer Battalion, he was killed on November 6, 2003, when an IED exploded near his convoy. In the face of this tragic loss, his family found solace in the love shown to them by fellow Knights and their pride over James’ faith and sacrifice.
Darrell Miller, Sr. played for five years with the California Angels and hails from one of the most famous sports families in the country. His sister, Cheryl, is widely regarded as the greatest women’s basketball player ever, and his brother, Reggie, is an NBA Hall of Famer. For Darrell, a committed Catholic and Knight of Columbus, sports are a vehicle to grow one’s character and faith.
U.S. Army Special Forces First Sergeant Sompaul Vorapanich has led men into the crucible of war. A founding member of St. Michael the Archangel Council located at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sompaul also annually leads wounded warriors on a Knights of Columbus-sponsored pilgrimage to Lourdes.
The Al Dakhils come from the ancient city of Daraa, some 60 miles south of the Syrian capital of Damascus. There, they led a peaceful life as Melkite Greek Catholics. However, in the spring of 2011, the outbreak of civil war forced them to flee their homeland. Welcomed into Canada by the parishioners of Holy Redeemer Church and the Knights of Columbus, the Al Dakhils discovered the beauty of the beatific vision.
A group of young men studying for the priesthood, whose vocations are supported by the Knights of Columbus, look to evangelize through the power of song.
Heroes are those who overcome immense challenges and inspire others to do the same. Chris Dooley, a multi-sport Special Olympics athlete from Maryland fits that description. Chris, who is also an active Knight of Columbus, reveals the triumph and heroism of Special Olympics athletes who give witness to the dignity of those with intellectual disabilities.
Everyday Heroes | Episode 3: Grace in the Eye of the Storm
Daily life for General Agent José Lebron-Sanabria drastically changed the instant Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. The nearly Category 5 storm devastated the island, leaving residents on a long and arduous journey of survival, recovery and reconstruction. José and his fellow Knights of Columbus rallied their communities to support those in need, proving once again that tragedies present opportunities to bring out the best in humanity.
Everyday Heroes | Episode 2: A Touchdown for Life
Since 1973, the Notre Dame Knights have delighted Fighting Irish football fans with their iconic pre-game steak sandwich sale, but for the Knights, it’s about a lot more than grilling steaks. To date, they have raised $1.5 million for various charitable causes, including the purchase of life-saving ultrasound machines. Click on the link above to see the video that describes their program.
Everyday Heroes | Episode 1: Not Your Average Joe
The first video of the nine-part series is Not Your Average Joe, the story of 25-year-old Joe Reali. Passionate football player and fan, he set aside his love of sports to be at his mother’s side during her battle with cancer. This kind of selflessness characterized Joe’s everyday life until his sudden death in 2015. In this feature, Joe’s family and friends bring their memories of this devout and fun-loving young man to the screen.
Joe’s dream was to touch millions. His example inspired Knights to form a new council in his name. Click on the link above to see the video that describes his amazing story. Each time you watch the video, you help keep his memory alive.
>>>>> CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE SERIES AS EACH EPISODE IS RELEASED <<<<<