Portsmouth Resident: 'I've Learned More From My Son Than Anyone'

Patch and When the Game Stands Tall are asking about the coaches, teachers or mentors who inspired you.

John F.K. Smith of Portsmouth tells us about his mentor, his son Ian Smith.

Mentor Name: Ian Smith
Known Mentor for: 18 years
Town: Portsmouth

What my mentor taught me about success:

Ian is my son. Four years ago he was diagnosed with an arachnoid cyst on his brain. His mother, sister, and I were devastated, thinking how could this happen to our little boy. Not Ian. All he wanted to know was how we could fix it because he had a life to live.

What my mentor taught me about dealing with failure:

It wasn’t so much about failure as it was about pushing through. He let us know he had no intention of letting this come between him and his first love, baseball.

Best advice from mentor:

“Together we will get through this dad.” He let us know that it didn’t define who he was, and with time it would be just another experience. Ian went on to become Newport County Athlete of the Year. Although young in years, he is wise beyond belief. I realize we look to our elders for mentoring, but I’ve learned more from my son than anyone.

Patch would like to know about the people in your life who inspired you. Tell us about the coach, mentor or teacher who made a difference in your life. Your mentor will be entered for a chance to win a prize package from Patch. All Everyday Hero submissions will be shared on Patch. Nominate your mentor here.