When a family faces separation because of military service, it can be a challenging time for everyone involved.
However one exceptional neighbor is going above and beyond to help a young boy cope with his father’s overseas deployment.
Brian Kelly, an enthusiastic 5-year-old, comes from a military family in Belleville, Ill. His father, Daniel, 43, was sent overseas with the Air Force in May, leaving Brian longing for his presence. “Brian misses his father,” shared Barbara Kelly, Brian’s mother.
He’s a shy boy, and he absolutely adores his daddy.”
Fortunately, Dean Cravens, a neighbor who resides next door, has stepped in to fill the void and provide much-needed support for Brian. Their heartwarming connection originated from their shared love for yard work. “Brian has always been fascinated with weed-wackers and lawn mowers,” Barbara said. “He dreams of becoming a lawn mower man when he grows up.”
Brian and his neighbor Dean first bonded over yard work. Photo courtesy of Molly Cravens
“(Brian) had more time on his hands without his dad around. He didn’t have that person,” Dean said.
Ever since the Kelly family moved into the neighborhood almost a year ago, Brian and Dean would see each other outside, where Brian would be out helping his dad with yard work. However, after Brian’s father was deployed, Brian was missing the time he spent bonding with his dad. Brian started popping up next door at Dean’s home, wanting to spend time outside with him.
Brian follows Dean around the yard. Photo courtesy of Molly Cravens
Dean, a father of three daughters ranging in age from 16 to 26, welcomed having the little boy around and began involving him in small gardening tasks. As they spent more time together, their relationship grew stronger, and they discovered shared passions for golf, baseball, and basketball. “They would be working in the garden and then say, ‘Hey, want to shoot some hoops?'” Barbara said, marveling at the friendship between Brian and Dean. Today, the two share an unbreakable bond, almost a second father-son relationship.
Barbara expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Dean, acknowledging the impact he has had on Brian’s life.
If Daniel knew what was happening, it would move him to tears,” she said.
The significance of their extraordinary relationship was most evident on recent Father’s Day. Dean knocked on Brian’s door and invited him to spend the day together, engaging in activities that helped the young boy keep his mind off his father being gone. Molly Cravens, Dean’s youngest daughter, captured the joyous occasion in a heartfelt tweet. “Brian and my dad are absolutely adorable. It’s like having a little brother whenever he comes around,” she said.
This is our little neighbor. His dad is deployed in Syria and everyday he comes to the door asking to work with our dad. Appreciate today💓 pic.twitter.com/RdAHwh2Thm
— ~~~ (@mctheflyestg) June 18, 2017
Their friendship serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact we can have on one another’s lives through the simple act of just being there for someone else. The Cravens family exemplifies the power of empathy and compassion, offering Brian the support and care he needs while his father courageously serves his country.
Watch the inspiring story below.
