Our Heroes

Anthony Heleno - Melbourne Support Group’s Every Day Hero

At the age of 26 this every day hero acquired a brain tumor. Undergoing several surgeries and participating in various therapies over the past 7 years, he continues to endure the day-to-day struggles with memory and balance.

With his trusty canine companion, a black Labrador retriever named Loper by his side, this every day hero is a survivor in every aspect. His ability to stay focused with jigsaw puzzles, computer skills and video games has helped him master college classes at Brevard Community College in Melbourne. He has completed three courses in AutoCad involving computers and drafting. Loper’s job is to help our every day hero with things such as picking up dropped items and guiding him through the day.

Together, they help the Heads Together support group in Melbourne whenever they can with fundraising efforts and awareness. He tells his story to others with determination and kind words. His ability to be a positive role model for others, give unselfishly, his generous spirit and approach to life is an inspiration to all. These qualities and more are why the Heads Together Support group in Melbourne have made Anthony Heleno their Every Day Hero!

Jared Padgett - Second Chance of Northwest Florida

Possessing exceptional athletic abilities, this every day hero graduated from high school with a collegiate scholarship to play baseball at Wallace College. Everything changed when he was driving his car and struck a 4-inch drop along the side of the road, flipping his vehicle. He was in a coma for three months and had to learn to swallow, think, talk and walk all over again. His hopes of being an all-star baseball player were over.

Even so Jared’s resilient spirit helped him to find a new calling. He decided to become a certified social worker and help others who face similar challenges. Using vocational rehabilitation services to pay for his schooling, he finished his AA degree, then went on to receive his Bachelor’s in Social Work from FSU. He joined Second Chance of Northwest Florida’s day treatment program for survivors of TBI and applied his social work skills with others while improving his own recovery. But the story doesn’t end here. He is pursuing his Master’s degree in Social Work while continuing to volunteer two days a week at Second Chance leading classes that assist survivors of TBI to re-discover hope and dignity. As a public speaker in the community Jared shares his story with wit and passion. He helps run the Panama City support group and inspires both survivors and family members. All this and more is why Jared Padgett is Panama City’s Every Day Hero!