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14-year-old’s non-profit raises money for sick children

Parker Inks has muscular dystrophy, but that hasn't stopped him from living his life to the fullest. Parker Inks says his purpose is to help other families with sick children.
Parker Inks

(Toledo News Now) - He's a 14 year-old boy, like no other. Parker Inks has muscular dystrophy, but that hasn't stopped him from living his life to the fullest. Parker Inks says his purpose is to help other families with sick children.

It all started in 2008, when Parker was hospitalized due to respiratory problems, and almost did not make it. At the same time, his mother Patti was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma.

Todd Drusback started with small fundraisers to help the Inks family pay for medical bills. Seeing how the community responded with open arms, they decided to start Parker's Purpose, a non-profit that helps other families going through the same thing.

"Imagine the best thing that can happen, that could ever happen to a human being, that's what this feels like," Parker said about the organization.

Every year, they have a dinner and auction to raise money for the non-profit. This year, the keynote speaker was former Ohio State coach, Jim Tressel, and all tickets were sold out.

"It's very humbling, to begin with," Tressel said. "To see what Parker and his family have done, what coach has done and taken adversity and turning it into extraordinary things for others - I mean, I don't know if it gets any better than that."

Parker has an incredible love for football, and is the motivational speaker for his local team.

"They give me an immense amount of encouragement, you know, when I get to give those speeches. I know they're really listening and they take it close to their hearts," Parker said.

And his zest for life has affected everyone around him.

"You know, it really has changed my perspective on a lot of things," said Drusback. "Because when you think of your stresses and strains, they might not be as severe as some of the people struggling, especially kids."

For more information on Parker's Purpose and how to donate, visit the website here.

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