SEMI-FINALIST
Eric Melnyczenko
Being Kyla’s dad means showing up every day with patience, strength, and love— and making sure she knows there’s nothing she can’t do!
Currently 12th
VOTEHelp me appear in a national TV commercial provided by Ace Hardware and take home $25,000!
Voting in the Semi-Finals ends on Thursday, November 5th at 7PM PST
What is Super Dad?
Learn MoreWhat's the most rewarding part about being a dad?
Kyla and I are best buds, and she’ll proudly tell you so! Whether we’re playing, reading, going on an adventure, or having a “best buds” date, I simply love being with her. But, nothing makes me prouder than watching how hard she works. Kyla faces challenges physically and in school, but never lets her disabilities define how others see her. She is incredibly smart, determined, and full of personality. Getting to be her dad and best bud is the greatest reward I could ask for!
Why do you strive to be the best dad you can be?
For me, “no days off” is literal. Kyla will need me for a long time, and with a small support system, I need to be at my best for her. But, Kyla has taught me that the fight is worth it. Having limitations doesn't make her life less valuable or mean we should try any less for her. As her dad, I have the privilege and responsibility to help her live the fullest life possible. On the hard days, that's what picks me back up: she is worth the fight. Every single time.
How would you use the $25,000?
I’d first purchase a whole-home generator. Recent storms left us without power, including the lift we use to move Kyla in and out of our home. I became her only way in or out, and as she grows, that scares me. A generator would mean safety and security for Kyla when the power fails. I’d donate the rest to A Rosie Place for Children, where medically complex kids like Kyla receive respite care. Her joy during her “Rosie stays” is unmatched, and I’d love to help give that joy to more families!
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Vote for Eric Melnyczenko to be the next Super Dad while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting Children's Miracle Network® in their mission to provide life-saving care and improve the health of children across the country.
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