UK Prime Minister David Cameron's father, Ian Cameron, died earlier today after suffering a stroke while on holiday in France. The Cameron family was at his side shortly before he passed away. I know many of you don't follow UK politics and this actually isn't political, but I wanted to give a bit of background information about the life of an inspirational person.
Ian Cameron was born with very deformed legs. His father had little faith in his ability to fit in but nothing ever held Mr. Cameron back. He played many sports in school, even football; nobody could tell him he couldn't. In his adult years, Mr. Cameron persevered to become a successful stockbroker just like the generations before him. He went through several surgeries in his lifetime, especially in his youth, to ease the pain from his legs, but later had both legs amputated and lost the use of one eye due to an infection. Regardless of the appearance of misfortune, Mr. Cameron was very adamant about leading an extraordinary life, passing on the same attitude to his children, one of whom is now the prime minister of the United Kingdom.
Prime Minister Cameron has always praised his father and said this during the campaign:
"My father is a huge hero figure for me. He's an amazingly brave man because he was born with no heels – quite a disability. But the glass with him was half-full, normally with something alcoholic. I think I got my sense of optimism from him."
The House of Commons sent their condolences today prior to the Prime Minister's Questions period, which was led by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.
I just wanted to add that President Sarkozy of France gave the Cameron family a helicopter to use so that they could get to the hospital as soon as possible. Great man.
May our thoughts and prayers be with the Cameron family at this difficult time.
- Franny.
