“The proudest day that I have had as a father has to have been taking my little preemie home from the hospital. I saw how he fought for every breath. I remember looking at him and saying to myself that I will be the father to him that I never had. Eighteen years later, I am proud of the man that he has become. He cares for those who are the most vulnerable. He is respectful to his mother and other women, but most importantly, he is quick to say he was wrong and give a hug to anyone he has offended.” —Vernon B. Parker, attorney/consultant and father of Ian, 18, and stepfather of Sonya