The Helpers Still Matter

The Helpers Still Matter

Every year, when September 11 arrives, I find myself remembering not only the tragedy but also the incredible courage and kindness that followed. We saw firefighters, police officers, paramedics, doctors, nurses, and ordinary people rush toward danger to help complete strangers. We witnessed bravery, sacrifice, and compassion on a scale that our country will never forget.

One of the most memorable pieces of advice I’ve ever heard came from Fred Rogers. He said that when scary things happen, “Look for the helpers.”

I’ve spent much of my life doing exactly that.

As a child with cerebral palsy, I had many helpers. My parents encouraged me to dream big instead of placing limits on me. Therapists challenged me to become as independent as possible. Doctors cared for my health. Friends stood beside me. Most of all, I had teachers who saw far more than my wheelchair.

One teacher, Mrs. Boyd, changed my life. She fought for my inclusion in regular education when it wasn’t always the popular choice. She believed in my abilities before many others did. She taught me that disability should never determine someone’s future.

Because someone helped me, I wanted to become a helper myself.

Today, I have the privilege of teaching students with disabilities. Every school day, I try to be the teacher who believes in a child before they believe in themselves. I want my students to know they are capable, valued, and worthy of every opportunity.

Being a helper doesn’t always require a dramatic act of heroism. Sometimes it looks like encouraging a student who is frustrated. Sometimes it means opening a door, offering a smile, or simply treating someone with dignity and respect.

These days, I’ve also experienced something unexpected. My daughter, Laura, has become one of my helpers.

Because of my cerebral palsy, I need assistance with things like dressing, transfers, and other daily tasks. She helps without hesitation and without making me feel like a burden. Recently, we spent a weekend together seeing Train in concert, and I was reminded that helping someone isn’t just about meeting physical needs. It’s about sharing laughter, making memories, and enjoying life together.

During that trip, Laura said something that touched my heart.

“I love these times together and our adventures.”

Those words reminded me that helping someone isn’t a responsibility to fear. It can be an expression of love.

As I think about September 11, I don’t only remember the tragedy. I remember the people who chose compassion over fear. I remember that one person’s willingness to help can change another person’s life forever.

Mrs. Boyd changed mine.

My parents changed mine.

Many others have changed mine.

Now I hope, in some small way, that I’m doing the same for the students I teach.

The world will always need helpers. Not only on September 11, but every single day. We may never know how far a kind word, a helping hand, or a person who believes in us can reach.

So today, remember those we lost. Honor those who served. Thank the helpers in your own life.

And whenever you have the opportunity…

Be one.