I've been saying for quite some time that Steve Irwin is the only true hero I have in this world. He was, and always will be, the most genuine, charismatic, and passionate person I will ever know. With all the senseless violence that surrounds us everyday, he would take us with him on his journeys to meet all the creepy-crawlies that have filled so many with fear, and make us feel for them and know that they have a place in this world. He touched all of our hearts with his intense passion for not only wildlife, but for life itself. I would have given anything to have met him just once, to experience his electric enthusiasm and passion for conservation.

Steve Irwin will always be my biggest hero as long as I live, but I've realized he isn't my only hero. Without Terri, Steve's parents, Bob and Lyn, his sister Mandy, his best mate Wes, and his longtime friend John Stainton we may not have gotten to know and love Steve as we all have. Steve and Terri let us watch their children grow to follow in their footsteps and I hope we can witness them "taking the ball and running it up" and continue their fathers legacy.

So I guess I was wrong about only having one true hero. To the entire Irwin family and extended family at the Australia Zoo, you are and have always been our heroes. Please know each and every one of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Steve will be sorely missed, but will never be forgotten.