__Garth Callagha__n has been leaving inspirational notes in his 13-year-old daughter Emma's lunch since the second grade and he promised her he would continue to do so until she graduates high school. But after doctors diagnosed him with cancer for the third time in two years, Callaghan knew there was little chance he'd be around for another five years to fulfill his promise.
So he started writing the 826 notes he still owes Emma ahead of time…and they're so touching, they're sure to bring tears to your eyes.
So far, Callaghan has written 740 of the notes and has only 86 to go. Most of the notes consist of either a famous motivational quote or a brief personal letter that he ends with "Love, Dad." Some examples?
Dear Emma, Everything in moderation. Except Awesome. You can never have too much Awesome. Love, Dad
Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing. —B. Franklin
"Dear Emma, Sometimes when I need a miracle, I look into your eyes and realize I've already created one. Love, Dad"
See, I told you'd tear up!
While it must be difficult for Callaghan to write these notes knowing he might not be there to give them to her himself, it's amazing that he's willing to go above and beyond to keep his promise and make sure she has this piece of him left.
"At the end of the day, these notes might be the only thing my daughter has left of me," he told the Richmond-Times Dispatch. And though his daughter is entering teenagehood and might not find the notes "cool" one day, he says that for now, "this is a special thing that we share."
I couldn't help but get emotional, hearing Callaghan's story. He's clearly such a dedicated and caring father. No matter what happens, Emma is lucky to be able to call him her dad—and his notes will always be a reminder of that.
Images via Because I Said So
