George Lander "The Hero In My Life"

"The Hero In My Life," is truly an amazing soul, a man that always puts others first, no matter what comes at him. George Lander is 78 years young and is battling cancer of the bladder. Even while undergoing removal of his bladder and chemo infusions, he continues to place others above himself.

He has a heart as big as Texas when it comes to causes. It is nothing to see him out mowing a yard for someone who can't or picking up trash along the road, even when he doesn't feel his best. Helping a stranded motorist is nothing for this senior, in fact, he feels like it's his duty. Giving money to the hungry or the homeless is nothing new to George Lander. His Father, Morton Lander was known for his generosity to those in need.

George has always given so generously to those around him without ever asking anything in return. He started a small "Mom & Pop" grocery store that soon grew to 2 stores and it was nothing for him to give away groceries to those that couldn't pay. He could always be seen slipping money to an elderly customer when their electric bill was too high. He has always given so generously to those around him without ever asking or wanting anything in return.

This wonderful man taught me that life is so much more when we practice tolerance, understanding and compassion. He introduced me to politics and taught me how to enjoy and share it, while respecting the opinions of those around me. He led me to an appreciation of business and customer service that surpasses none! His wisdom never ceases to amaze me. He can merely look at a row of figures and tell you the sum within just a few dollars. 

But most of all, he taught me the importance of family. That no matter how far down you are, it's your family that will be there with you, lifting you up. That family isn't just a name, it's a feeling, a sense of belonging. That we can all be family. That we can all care about one another, no matter what color we are, where we live, who we are or what we do. That no matter where we go in life, that family can go with us. His love and respect knows no bounds, no color and no limits. I am so honored to have him not only as my Father-in-Law, but also as my hero.