TH Catering by Chef Tate

This is my dad, Richard Pelen. 🤍

This right here… this is bonding time for me and my dad. Growing up, my dad always made sure all his kids knew how to defend themselves. That was something he instilled in all of us. To protect ourselves, stand strong, and never back down. And even now, it’s something he still feels 100% confident doing. 🥊

A lot of people may not know this, but about 2 years ago my dad was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. Since then, I’ve been the one taking him to his appointments, helping with his medications, and doing everything I can to help slow the progression of his sickness.

Because of his condition, he repeats himself a lot and sometimes may come across differently to people who don’t know him. I see the weird looks. I hear the comments. Some people even make him feel small, belittle him, or laugh at him… and that honestly pisses me off. Especially when it comes from people who know him or customers who don’t realize that’s my dad.

But one thing my dad still remembers is boxing… and those deadly body shots lol. 🥊😂 You can tell the muscle memory and passion is still there.

What people don’t see is the strong man behind the sickness. The dad who taught us to love one another, always have each other’s backs, protect ourselves, and stay strong no matter what. The dad who was very strict, but loved us hard and gave us memories we’ll carry forever. So if you ever see me extra protective or always watching over him, it’s because I know what he’s battling every single day. I’m my daddy’s keeper. 🤍

So please, be kind. You never truly know what someone is dealing with on a daily basis. Dementia doesn’t just affect one person… it affects the whole family.

No matter what, that’s still my dad. And I’m going to stand beside him every step of the way. 🤍