Father’s Day is the perfect time to let your Dad know that you love him. But we know that not everyone comes from a family with a dad.

One of our team members – Megan – was a single parent, but back in the day before single parenting was ‘mainstream.’ Megan’s husband left the family when their children were 2 and 6 months old respectively. For the next 13 years Megan brought the children up without a partner. She reminisces with so much love about the role her parents played in the lives of her children. Her children were surrounded by all the love in the world and that, as we all know, is something you cannot put a price on. Megan’s father was not only a beloved Grandad, he was also a surrogate Dad. He was there holding the saddle of the bike when his granddaughter learned to ride without training wheels. And he was there when his grandson took his first steps. He was there for every event in his grandchildren’s life.

Time moves so fast.

Megan’s children are now 31 and 29. Her father is now a Great Grandad to a 10 month old great grandson. This loving, generous and honourable man is in his mid 80s and his health is failing. It is his turn now to be surrounded by the love of his family. For his wife, daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren to care for him as he has cared for others. And for his family to let him know how much he is loved, adored and respected.

And then there are those whose beloved dads have passed away. Our hearts go out to you. Not only is there the grief of losing a father, there is also the pain associated with Fathers’ Day.

For those of you who are familiar with Ripple Effect Gifts, you will know that our founder – Stephanni Richards – is a hard working single mum. Her two teenage children are grounded, secure and amazing young people. Steph’s much loved father, Joe Mortelliti is no longer with us, but his legacy lives on. Not only through his children and grandchildren, but also through his stunning photography.

For more of Joe’s photography, click here.

Steph’s son Jack has clearly inherited Joe’s photography skills, as may be seen from the photo below…. a school photography project with the theme of ‘Fashion.’

We at Ripple Effect Gifts acknowledge that you don’t have to be a father to be a dad.

The photograph accompanying this blog is of Joe Mortelliti as taken by Darren Stones.