Joel Kenneth Bankes, the youngest of four siblings, lost his father at four years of age. His mother would move back in with her parents until she could find employment to support herself and her young children. Joel writes a first-hand account of his challenges growing up in a low-income household without a father, including bouts of low self-esteem and depression. In his youth Joel engaged in risky behavior and abused alcohol and drugs to cope with his depression. School, however, provided a lifeline where he was able to excel. He graduated from the University of Illinois with honors and went on to obtain his master's degree in clinical psychology at Illinois State University. Mr. Bankes learned to manage his demons and improve his self-esteem. He left behind playing the victim to take control of his future. Over his career, Joel has contributed to innovative fatherhood programs and policies at both state and federal levels. In Father's Day Marathon, Joel provides illuminating examples of the adversity he faced growing up without a father and provides guidance for others in similar circumstances. If you have lost your own father too early, you may be inspired by walking in Joel's shoes. If, on the other hand, you were fortunate enough to have a strong, loving father in your life, you may be moved to become a surrogate father to a boy you know, or a boy you may come to know, who is less fortunate than you.