AMHERST, Ohio — Robert Work of Amherst has a fitting last name. That's because he's a hardworking man, a devoted husband and a wonderful father. Just ask his daughter, Rachel, who nominated him for our All-Star in Your Life series.
"He's my protector. He's always there, especially as a daughter, he fills the role of a dad that a daughter truly needs," Rachel said.
He's an all-star dad who extends kindness far beyond his own family, helping neighbors and friends with their needs, despite his own battle with MS and a recent knee injury. In fact, he needs surgery.
"He had just torn his meniscus. He's been out of work since September," Rachel said.
That's a hard hit for a machinist who has clocked in for the last 35 years.
"He does that seven days a week, without a complaint in the world, without anyone owing him anything," Rachel told us.
But, we do owe him something: A thank you. However, we had something up our sleeves. Robert was about to get a big surprise. We told him we were interviewing him about the auto industry, since Rachel works at a dealership.
Nope. Not quite.
"We're here because we're doing a series called All-Star in your life and your daughter, Rachel, nominated you," we told him.
"Wow. Okay," Robert said, stunned.
Then we read him Rachel's submission about her dad:
"The All-Star in my life is my dad, Robert Work! He's not just an All-Star when it comes to helping me understand homework, bringing me hot chocolate on cold days at work since I work outside, or cleaning the house. He does beyond all that with just getting over COVID, and also battling MS daily! He takes care of neighbors throughout our block! He watches the neighbors' houses when on vacation, cuts grass, sucks up leaves, runs yard wastes to the dump, moves trash cans to and from the neighbors' homes curbside, shovels,and snow blows driveways! He gets the mail for others, makes desserts and foods just for the neighbors. He's always sure to help in emergency situations within our development like possible gas leaks, or even a false alarm break in! Right now he's out of commission while dealing with a torn meniscus and awaiting for a surgery. He feels awful right now due to his pain and the fact he can't help as much as he used to be able to. Losing his balance and hobbling around, he still keeps his positive spirit and energy up for the family and neighborhood! Always waiving on the way to appointments and keeping everyone updated when he will be back to volunteer his time to the community! This past year, our neighbor made a neighbor of the year plaque and this opportunity to be and All-Star would prove it to be true!"
"Awww, she's a special girl. Thank you!" Robert said to Rachel. "Aww, thank you, Dad, I love you!" Rachel answered back.
"It's overwhelming. I know she loves me and there's not a doubt in my mind, but that she took the effort and, and time, to nominate me and, and, I'm lost for words. I'm speechless," Robert said of the gesture.
"There's a lot of people out there that need assistance, but nobody wants to take the time. And I value my neighbors. My neighbors are part of us," Robert said.
With that, we surprised Robert with four free Cavs tickets to a regular game.
We thank the Cavs for their willingness to honor these All-Stars!
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