Leah Berenson
Leah Berenson
September 23, 2022 ·  4 min read

Single Dad Works 4 Jobs to Feed His Family, Stranger Shows Up to Surprise him on Father’s Day.

A Secret Life of Mom Highlight Story: Sometimes there are stories that are just too good, too beautiful, or too unbelievable to keep locked away. That’s why we scour the archives and bring some of them back to enjoy again. They may make you smile or shed a tear, but they’re always meant to add a little positivity to your day. This story is from June 2016. Enjoy! 

Social media and news coverage give us the ability to see the good and bad of everyday life, in many parts of the world. It is because of this access, that we now have an opportunity to really see people for who they are. The world is a full spectrum of people and personalities. Some are significantly wrapped up in themselves and don’t care to make it a brighter place. However, some spend their whole lives compelled to do so. They give so much of themselves that you can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of hope and joy in their presence. One man spent his whole life giving to others, expecting nothing in return, and received an unexpected surprise.

Who is This Incredible Family Man?

Image Credit: Fox5 | Youtube

Harley Harlington, a single father, and grandfather worked 4 jobs all while running his own business. He did this in order to provide his family with memorable holidays and the things they needed while growing up. He also served in the military as a Marine. His daughter said of him, “He is a man that provides and gives to so many and never says no to anybody for anything. He’ll give the shirt off his back.” His most recent contribution to caring for his family has been providing rides to his granddaughter, Kirsten, in need of rides to and from work. Despite having a van with broken temperature control, Harley stepped up to be there. He has undoubtedly spent his entire life working to support the people he loves most. 

Image Credit: Fox5 | Youtube

Everyone’s Needs Are Important. 

Despite his constant presence in his family’s lives, Harley was not without struggle. He has faced some very serious health concerns and put them off because he had other priorities to tend to. In desperate need of a kidney transplant and after years of waiting he finally got the medical care he needed. Harley said it added 20-plus years to his life, which came as a huge relief to himself and his family.  

Image Credit: Fox5 | Youtube

Read: Great Grandma Raises 6 Kids So Strangers Come In To Ease Her Pain

The Team That Came to Help.

One day, Harley unexpectedly heard a knock at the door. He was greeted by a bouquet of flowers and a woman named Monica Jackson. Monica is part of the FOX5 surprise squad. For those who don’t know, FOX5 is the local news station where Harley and his family reside. Several years ago, the News channel decided to start surprising select viewers as a way to give back to the community. The surprise squad, sponsored by United Nissan and America First Credit Union, gets nominees based on personal struggles and what they themselves do to give back. Someone is selected and given a wonderful surprise that is meant to alleviate their stressors in some way. Harley was nominated by his daughter and granddaughter. They wanted to find a way to thank him for his constant presence and contributions in their lives. They decided this would be a great way to show their appreciation. If he was chosen they were sure he’d be given the Father’s Day they felt he deserved.

Image Credit: Fox5 | Youtube

What Came With This Sweet Surprise?

Monica Jackson showed up on his front doorstep to give him a little pick me up after all he’s endured and done for his family. She gave him a bouquet of flowers, which while a kind gesture was only the beginning. After spending some time speaking with his family about why they felt he was a good candidate to receive this special surprise, Monica then asked Harley what drives him to be so present, supportive, and hard-working. Harley replied with this, “Whatever you can, you do, even if all you have to give is an ear to listen. You do [it] without any expectation of any kind or reward. You do [it] from the heart.” After Monica heard Harley’s struggles she told them about a kind man who offered to fix the heating and air. Jose Gutierrez, from Sudden Impact Auto Body, was inspired by the man Harley is and wanted to help. She then presented Harley with a red box containing $1500. With tears in his eyes, he graciously accepted the gifts he’s been given and expressed a deep sense of gratitude, both to his daughter, granddaughter, and the FOX5 Surprise Squad.

Image Credit: Fox5 | Youtube

Heartfelt Conclusion.

A single father who served in the military made many sacrifices. These sacrifices were for both his family and the country. His nonstop efforts to provide were reciprocated by his daughter and granddaughter through a sense of gratitude. They weren’t sure how else to express this gratitude and the News channel was happy to help. This story occurred one day back in 2016 but has a timeless message. The message is built on the idea that giving back to others always ends up giving back to us, even if inadvertently.

Keep Reading: Couple adopts neighbor’s 3 children after she passes and then the community rallies together 

Source

  1. FOX5 Surprise Squad: A Father’s Gift (Surprise & Intv).” Youtube. FOX5 Las Vegas. June 22, 2016.