Chompian of the Month: Jeff Bekos of "One Dad's Mission"

In honor of Father's Day this month, we're highlighting Jeff Bekos, a devoted husband and father whose initiative, "One Dad's Mission," aims to raise awareness, encourage volunteerism, and generate funds to ensure that Ronald McDonald House can continue its vital work for another 50 years.

Starting July 29th, Jeff is embarking on a 4,600-mile cross-country bike ride from California to Pennsylvania stopping at 26 Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) along the route to share his family's story. Chomps will be keeping Jeff and RMHC families fueled by donating meat sticks to each of the 26 RMHC locations along Jeff's cross-country trek.

Ronald McDonald House stands as a beacon of hope and support for families grappling with the profound challenges of having a sick child. Throughout the Bekos Family's harrowing ordeal, the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House provided essential assistance and solace to the Bekos Family.

Follow Jeff on social media @onedadsmission and www.onedadsmission.org. Learn more on how you can help at your local Ronald McDonald House! #KeepingFamiliesClose

Can you tell us about yourself - what you do, a bit about your story, etc.?

I'm a devoted husband and father whose life was forever changed on July 5, 2013, at 8:15 am. On that day, my 13-year-old daughter, Hailey, came down for breakfast and within 15 seconds, her world and ours were turned upside down. What I initially thought was a stroke led us to our local hospital, where she experienced the first of thousands of seizures.

Hailey was quickly transported to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where her condition worsened. Over the next few days, she endured two more grand mal seizures, stopped breathing, and fell into a coma that lasted four agonizing months. The doctors prepared my wife and me for the worst, but we refused to give up hope.

During this unimaginably difficult time, our family found a temporary home at the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, where we stayed for 254 days as Hailey fought for her life. The support and kindness we received there were invaluable. Against all odds, Hailey emerged from her coma and began a two-year recovery journey that defied every expectation.

Today, she is thriving and living her best life, a testament to her strength and determination. Our experience has profoundly shaped me. Now, as a dad, husband, and someone devoted to helping others, I channel my energy into supporting families facing similar challenges. Our story is a reminder of the power of hope, the strength of the human spirit, and the importance of community.

What’s your best tip on how to stay positive?

Staying positive has always been a priority for me, even though I’ve known that life wouldn’t be easy. There are good days and bad days, and I believe each holds valuable lessons. The key is not to let the bad days bring you down. I draw my inner strength from prayer and my faith, which provide a foundation of hope and resilience. I focus on doing the best I can, not just for myself, but also for my family and friends. It’s about finding balance and learning from every experience, whether it's positive or negative. By embracing this mindset, I aim to stay strong and positive, supporting those I love and making the most of each day.

How do you consider yourself a “game changer?”

I am not sure I consider myself a "game changer". My dedication is to focus on the positive and minimizing the negative aspects of life. When engaging with others, I make it a point to truly listen and understand their message, always hoping to learn from their experiences. I live by the saying, "walking in their shoes," which helps me empathize and connect on a deeper level. The greatest joy for me comes from helping others, knowing that even small acts of kindness and support can make a significant difference in their lives. This approach not only enriches my life, but I hope that it creates a ripple effect of positivity and change in the lives of those around me.

What’s the best thing you do for your personal health everyday (mental or physical or both!) that allows you to be the best version of yourself?

The best thing I do for my health every day, both mentally and physically, is bicycling as much as I can. As I get older, I’m also focusing on minimizing stress and discovering my better "inner self." Cycling not only keeps me physically fit but also provides a mental escape and a sense of freedom. It helps clear my mind and reduces stress, allowing me to stay balanced and centered. This daily practice enables me to be the best version of myself, ready to support my family and help others.

How are you planning to challenge yourself in the next year?

To challenge myself in the next year, I'm undertaking a significant journey to honor the 50th Anniversary of the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, the very first house, which has now grown to 390 houses in over 60 countries, helping millions of families every day. Starting on July 29th, I will embark on a 4,600-mile bike ride from the Orange County, CA house, stopping at 26 Ronald McDonald Houses along the way, and finishing at the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House on October 12th. This initiative, "One Dad's Mission," aims to raise awareness, encourage volunteerism, and generate funds to ensure that RMHC can continue its vital work for another 50 years. Through this challenge, I hope to make a meaningful impact and support a cause that has been instrumental in my own family's journey.