Heart of a Father Award will honor several Indiana fathers
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Marcus Murray took WISH-TV on a tour of the Fathers and Families Center. Murray works as a consultant to the center that is known for helping dads be better dads.
In 2009, Murray signed up to take a five-week course at the center called the Fatherhood Development Workshop. He finished and then he started his job helping other fathers. During the process he faced some setbacks.
In October of 2012, Marcus stood outside a nightclub when he was struck by a stray bullet. The shot would paralyze him from the waist down.
“I haven’t allowed this condition to stop me. Actually, I think I’ve done more in my wheelchair then I did prior to,” said Murray.
In February of this year, the single father of three would face another test. Detectives would find the body of Murray’s 16-year-old son Jaylan in a car. Investigators say Murray died from a gunshot wound while sitting in a car. 24-Hour News 8 asked Murray how he deals with the loss of his son.
“I don’t know how to fully answer that,” said Murray.
On Friday, Murray and three other fathers will receive Heart of a Father Award, presented by Managed Health Services at a luncheon. The 12th annual Faces of Fatherhood Luncheon will take place at the Hyatt Regency. For the past decade the group has recognized fathers who demonstrate commitment to their family and children.
During the course of a 30 minute conversation, Murray never made mention of the award, instead he chose to focus on the importance of fathers not giving up no matter the circumstances.
“I’m not perfect, I made my mistakes,” said Murray. “One thing I can’t give up on is my faith, my faith in God,” said Murray.
As an interview came to an end, Murray offered words of encouragement to fathers who feel like the obstacles they are faced with are too great.
“All of those excuses that you think are not reachable goes away,” said Murray.