Wednesday, October 24, 2012

One Wonderful Father: Eugene Pothy



On behalf of the I CARE Foundation, it is my privilege to have received a very special American Flag and United States Senate Citation for Philippe, the son of my very dear friend Eugene.  Philippe was reunited with his father after nearly 10 years apart: as a toddler child, he was detained without his father's permission in the Ivory Coast. However, all that changed on January 17th, 2012, when Philippe walked through the United States Customs exit at John F. Kennedy airport in New York City and into the arms of his loving father. Miracles do happen.

The American Flag flown in Philippes honor is a reminder to Philippe that this great nation - the nation of his birth - is his home.  The flag is also a testament to the great love his father has for him as it acknowledges the never-ending quest for Eugene to reunite with his son.

When I think of heroes in my own life, one of the first persons that comes to mind is my pal Eugene.  Eugene left the war-torn country of the Ivory Coast and came to the United States of America in hope of creating a better life for himself.  Armed with a masters degree in maritime engineering and fluent in many languages, he made his way in New York City.  And when his child was detained in Africa without his permission, Eugene held onto his faith and dug deep within his character to never give up the hope and belief that one day he would reunite with his son.



So Philippe, if you ever read this, I want you to know, as I have said to you on occasion, that your father is a great man who loves you with all of his heart.  The American Flag you are about to receive from me and the I CARE Foundation was flown in honor of both you and your father.


We are all so proud of you.

Peter Thomas Senese