Students Uncover Their Teacher’s Secret and Their View of Him Completely Changes

Published: Nov 18, 2023

For decades, Jim O’Connor was known as a strict Vietnam veteran with no family of his own. 

But in 2013, his students were astonished to discover a secret side to their beloved math teacher, one that proved he had a heart of gold. This revelation would forever change their opinion of Mr. O’Connor and they’d never look at him the same way again.

Serving His Country with Discipline: Mr. O'Connor's Navy Days 

From a young age, Mr. O’Connor had a special relationship with discipline. After spending a few years in the military, he was fortunate enough to be posted aboard the illustrious U.S.S. Enterprise as an electrician and took part in the Vietnam War.

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Mr. O’Connor’s years in the navy only served to strengthen his sense of discipline and commitment to the country he loved. Serving his nation with utmost dedication, Mr. O’Connor was an exemplary example of patriotism.

Mr. O'Connor's Journey from the Navy to the Big Apple! 

After his time in service of the Navy was done, John Mr. O’Connor didn’t sit still for long. Instead, this Vietnam veteran decided to take on a new challenge, and continue his career as an electrician with the New York Port Authority. 

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Here he worked to maintain the iconic Lincoln and Holland Tunnels, giving them the care they needed to remain in top condition. His drive and ambition to keep pushing himself forward led him to the bustling city of New York, where he was able to make a real name for himself.

From Electrician to Engineer: One Man's Dedication to Succeed 

In pursuit of his dreams, Michael Mr. O’Connor decided to enroll in night classes and worked tirelessly for several years to gain his engineering degree. His dedication paid off, and he was rewarded with a job at Hughes Aircraft in California. 

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His hard work and determination enabled him to make a life-changing move and embark on a new journey with unlimited possibilities. Mr. O’Connor’s story is an inspiring reminder that dreams are within reach for those who are willing to take the necessary steps to make them a reality.

From Engineer to Math Teacher: Mr. O'Connor's Journey of Self-Discovery 

Mr. O’Connor’s career reinvention journey began when he decided to move to a new state. Seeking to make a difference, he volunteered his time coaching children in sports. Little did he know, this experience would be the beginning of a new life-long calling. 

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Taking the plunge, Mr. O’Connor retrained to become a math teacher and embarked on a 38-year career in education. His journey of self-discovery has led him to an inspiring new career path that has made a positive impact on many young lives.

The Exceptional Mr. O'Connor: A Strict Yet Compassionate Teacher 

For over two decades, Mr. O’Connor has been a teacher at St. Francis High School, a Catholic prep establishment in La Cañada, California. He is a respected teacher of both calculus and algebra and also imparts a unique style of discipline to his students. 

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Rather than coddling them, he encourages them to take responsibility and make mature decisions. His blend of strictness and compassion has earned him the respect of his students and a place in their hearts.

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Strict but Fair - Mr. O'Connor's Unique Teaching Style 

Mr. O’Connor had a strict presence in the classroom, with his tall stature, neat gray crew-cut, and observant eyes. Yet despite this, he was able to keep a class of 30 young boys in check. 

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His secret? A unique teaching style that was both strict and fair. He would not tolerate any misbehavior, but at the same time understood the needs of his students. With Mr. O’Connor, the students knew that their education was always in good hands.

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The Unforgettable Teaching Method of Mr. O'Connor 

Michael Tinglof was a freshman at St. Francis High School when he encountered the strict teaching style of Mr. O’Connor. When asked about his experiences, Tinglof recalls the immense pressure to never even glance at the clock. 

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“If you look at the clock, you’re on his bad list for the rest of the class,” he said. Although challenging, Tinglof notes that Mr. O’Connor’s teaching method taught him valuable lessons that he continues to apply to this day.

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Unmasking the Humor of a Deadpan Professor 

Professor O’Connor may not be the most animated figure in the classroom, but his humor still shines through – if you know how to look for it. His deadpan delivery often goes over his students’ heads, making it seem like he’s being mean when he’s actually trying to make a joke. 

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Pat McGoldrick, one of Mr. O’Connor’s pupils, noted, “Everybody thinks he’s being really mean.” It’s time to take a closer look and uncover the humor of the deadpan professor.

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"It's Totally Worth It!" 

McGoldrick explains one of Professor O’Connor’s quips with a smile, “In our class, someone suggests an alternate approach to the problem on the board and Mr. O’Connor will respond, ‘Oh yeah, I’ll just do this and I’ll just change that and I’ll do all this extra work and I’ll get the same answer. 

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It’s totally worth it!'” With his enthusiasm, it’s obvious that Professor O’Connor loves a challenge, and is willing to put in the extra work to get the same result.

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Mr. O'Connor - A Dedicated Math Teacher 

Mr. O’Connor, the math teacher, was known for his strict approach to discipline. He was respected yet feared by his students, who found it difficult to imagine what his life outside of school was like. 

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Surprisingly, the teacher had never married or had children of his own. Instead, he had dedicated most of his life to his students, providing them with the best education he could. His commitment and passion for teaching earned him a special place in the hearts of many.

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A Teacher's Unwavering Dedication to Learning 

Mr. O’Connor had a stern demeanor when it came to teaching, but he was proud of the results he achieved. He believed that learning should be taken seriously, and refused to compromise on that. 

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Mr. O’Connor was unwavering in his commitment to giving students the best education and showed the same dedication throughout his teaching career. He stayed true to his principles and earned the respect of his students for his efforts

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Strict Discipline Leads to a Positive Learning Environment 

In 2014, Today interviewed Mr. O’Connor, a teacher with an impressive track record. He asserted that having a strict approach to teaching was advantageous for both himself and his pupils.

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“When you’re dealing with a group of 32 teenage boys, it’s essential to maintain discipline,” he said. “Without it, you won’t be able to create a conducive learning environment.” Mr. O’Connor has certainly put his words into practice, having achieved positive results in his classroom over the years.

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The Unlikely Hobby of a Strict Math Teacher 

Mr. O’Connor was known for his strict math teaching style. But what his students didn’t know was that the no-nonsense teacher had an unexpected and endearing hobby outside of school. 

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In 2013, circumstances revealed that behind his stern demeanor, there was a softer side to Mr. O’Connor. His pastime was so unique that it was hard to believe it was true. It was an activity that no one expected from a serious math teacher. Who knew that Mr. O’Connor could be so sweet?

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Exploring the Impact of Donated Blood: Tinglof and McGoldrick's Journey 

In 2013, Mr. O’Connor’s students Tinglof and McGoldrick set out on a journey to understand the impact of donated blood. The two boys headed up a student blood drive at St. Francis High School and wanted to understand the effects of their efforts. 

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Their research led them to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where they saw firsthand how donated blood helps those in need. The experience was both humbling and life-changing for the two boys, as they were able to witness the difference their donations were making.

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Mr. O'Connor Reunites Pupils with Hospital Reception 

When Tinglof and McGoldrick arrived at the hospital, they were met with an unexpected surprise. The staff were overjoyed to hear the name of the school the boys attended, for it was the same one that their beloved math teacher, Mr. O’Connor, worked at. 

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Instantly, the boys were welcomed with open arms and a smile. Thanks to their teacher’s hard work and dedication, his pupils were given a warm and heartfelt reception!

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Uncovering the Alter Ego of Jim Mr. O'Connor 

People stopped them in the hospital to say, “Oh, you must know Jim O’Connor. Isn’t he wonderful?” Tinglof and McGoldrick were filled with disbelief in 2013. How could this man, who was virtually a stranger to them, be so loved by so many? 

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Little did they know that beneath his strict exterior, Jim O’Connor had an alter ego that made him an inspiration to all. As they soon found out, this alter ego was the very thing that made Jim O’Connor the extraordinary person that he was.

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An Inspiring Example of Selfless Service – Teacher Mr. O'Connor Sets the Standard 

The boys couldn’t believe their eyes when they entered the hospital’s blood donor center. The math teacher they all admired, Mr. O’Connor, had given more blood to the hospital than anyone else. 

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In fact, his name was featured in pride of place at the top of the plaque of donors. It was clear why their math teacher was so revered – he had set an inspiring example of selfless service. His willingness to give back to his community had not gone unnoticed.

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Donating Blood for 30 Years: Meet the Kind-Hearted Man Who Has Saved Lives 

For 30 years, Jim O’Connor has been selflessly donating his blood for the betterment of others. He first began donating at the hospital in 1989, soon discovering he was Type O Negative – a universal blood group that can be given to patients of all blood groups. 

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This type of blood can be especially useful in emergency situations where time is of the essence and there’s no time for blood profiling. Mr. O’Connor’s generosity has no doubt saved countless lives over the years and he continues to inspire others to do the same.

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Uncovering the Surprising Story of a Math Teacher 

When Tinglof and McGoldrick visited the hospital, they weren’t expecting to uncover the surprising story of their math teacher, Mr. O’Connor. To their amazement, they discovered that he had donated more than 70 gallons of blood and countless platelets over the years. 

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This was an incredible feat and it showed just how dedicated Mr. O’Connor was to make a difference in his community. It was a reminder to Tinglof and McGoldrick that one person can make a lasting impact, even if they’re ‘just a math teacher’.

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Witnessing the Reality of Sick Children at CHLA 

Mr. O’Connor had been donating to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles for years, but it was only during his regular visits that he truly grasped the magnitude of the situation. He encountered babies facing major operations and toddlers undergoing chemotherapy, and witnessed the emotional toll it had taken on their parents. 

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Despite the heartbreaking scenes, he was buoyed by the courage of the children and their families as they faced the challenges head-on. Mr. O’Connor was proud to continue supporting CHLA in any way he could.

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Teacher Overcomes Reservations to Help Sick Children 

Jim O’Connor had decided it was time to do something meaningful. After visiting a children’s hospital, he had seen firsthand the heartbreaking reality of sick children and their families. He had also noticed the volunteers who were selflessly devoting their time to help out in any way they could. 

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Mr. O’Connor was inspired to join in and, despite some initial reservations, he put himself forward to see if there was something he could do to make a difference. His courage and compassion will no doubt bring much-needed hope and comfort to those in need.

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A Math Teacher's Unexpected Journey to Becoming a TLC Volunteer 

Jim O’Connor never expected to find himself cuddling sick babies in the hospital. But when he was asked to step in as a ‘TLC’ volunteer, he felt a sense of duty to help. 

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Despite his initial nerves, especially when it came to caring for infants with medical equipment and those recovering from surgery, Mr. O’Connor found a new purpose in providing comfort and care to these tiny patients.

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Cuddling with Care: Unconventional Hero Wins Over Babies 

When Mr. O’Connor was asked to cuddle babies at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, he was hesitant. But the nurse, Sherry Nolan, saw a natural in him. After settling into his new role, Mr. O’Connor proved to be a baby whisperer. 

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He held them, fed them, walked around with them, got to know them, and always managed to bring a smile to their faces. Nolan praised Mr. O’Connor’s efforts, saying, “He can always coax a smile out of them.” Mr. O’Connor’s commitment to caring for the babies has made him an unexpected hero to the families at the hospital.

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"An Angel of Comfort: One man's Dedication to the Hospital's Sick Babies" 

Jim is a beacon of hope and comfort to the sick babies at the hospital. When their parents are unable to be around due to work or other family commitments, or in cases of suspected abuse, Mr. O’Connor steps in to provide a shoulder to lean on. 

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With his selfless dedication, Mr. O’Connor has become an angel of comfort to these babies and their families. Thanks to him, the hospital’s little ones are never alone.

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Jim Mr. O'Connor - The Natural-Born Cuddler 

For the past two decades, Jim O’Connor has been the go-to volunteer at the hospital for cuddles. His natural ability to make even the most disgruntled of infants feel safe and secure is unparalleled. 

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His colleague, Nolan, describes him as a “natural-born cuddler”, and indeed it’s amazing to witness the calming effect he has on the babies. Whether it’s an adoring stare or a gentle embrace, Jim’s comforting presence brings smiles to the faces of young and old alike.

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A Reliable Carer in Difficult Times: The Story of Mr. O'Connor 

When times are tough, Mr. O’Connor is the name nurses turn to. Not only is he reliable, but he has even been called upon to care for dying babies when their parents have been too devastated to do so. 

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Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, Mr. O’Connor shows up and cares for the infants with extreme love and respect. His actions are a reminder that even in the most difficult times, there is always someone who is willing to provide comfort and care.

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The Comfort of Care: Meet Jim, the Angel in Disguise 

Jeri Fonacier, a nurse at the hospital, can’t help but feel comforted when Jim arrives. “No matter how sick they are, no matter how devastated, he’s just so caring,” she tells the Los Angeles Times. “He brings such warmth and peace.” 

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Jim’s presence is like a beacon of hope to Fonacier and her colleague Rebecca Day, who share the same sentiment: “We see him and we say, ‘Oh Jim, oh thank God you’re here.’” Jim is an angel in disguise, showing the true power of compassion and care.

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Unveiling Mr. O'Connor's Unexpected Love for Babies 

Mr. O’Connor may not have children of his own, but he has a special place in his heart for his beloved nephews and nieces – he can’t help but adore babies! In a recent interview with Today, Mr. O’Connor opened up about his unexpected passion for these little bundles of joy, saying, “They’re beautiful, just totally dependent on us. 

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How could you not love them?!” It’s clear that Mr. O’Connor has a soft spot for the smallest of humans, and it’s simply heartwarming!

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Mr. O'Connor's Soothing Voice: A Magical Touch for Sick Babies? 

Everyone loves babies, but it’s clear that the feeling is mutual when it comes to Mr. O’Connor. He has a special touch that the infants he sees simply can’t get enough of. What is the secret of his success? 

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Nurse Nolan believes it’s his low, calming voice that soothes the children’s illness. But Mr. O’Connor modestly denies there’s any magic involved in his method. Is it really just a matter of his dulcet tones, or is there something more to it?

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Cuddles and Comfort for Every Baby 

Babies simply love to be held in someone’s arms, feeling safe and secure. Unfortunately, not all infants have the same opportunity to be cuddled and caressed by family members. 

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Mr. O’Connor has seen babies who don’t get the same level of affection as others, and some who receive no visitors at all. But no child should be denied the comfort of a cuddle! Let’s make sure every baby has access to the love and security they need.

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Math Teacher Gives Unconditional Love to Unfortunate Children 

Every day, math teacher Jim O’Connor gravitates toward those children who have nobody. He told Today, “The kids who have nobody, those are the ones who obviously need volunteers a lot.” 

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While they may have had a difficult start in life, their needs are still the same as any other baby. Mr. O’Connor understands this, stating, “They just want to be held by somebody.” He makes sure to give these children the unconditional love and attention they deserve. Mr. O’Connor is a true inspiration to us all.

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A True Hero: Jim O'Connor's 20 Years of Selfless Service 

For the past twenty years, Jim Mr. O’Connor has been a shining example of selfless service. Every week, he visits the hospital to fulfill his duties as a TLC volunteer. Nurse Erin Schmidt said it best: “Jim is invaluable to us.” 

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Her colleague Nolan added, “I can’t imagine working without him. We really do depend on him.” Jim Mr. O’Connor is a true hero, and his 20-year dedication to helping others is truly commendable.

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A Strict Teacher with a Soft Spot for Babies 

Despite being a strict teacher, Jim O’Connor has a soft spot for babies. When asked about his baby-cuddling activities, the teacher replied, “I just like them and relate to them somehow. 

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I don’t want to see them alone…You can’t do that.” Nurses at the hospital have praised Mr. O’Connor for his compassionate nature, but he doesn’t see it as anything extraordinary. It turns out that this stern teacher has a heart of gold!

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Mr. O'Connor's Secret Revealed at CHLA 

When Tinglof and McGoldrick visited Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, a secret was revealed about the tough-guy demeanor of Mr. O’Connor. Despite his best efforts to maintain his strong persona, his true soft side was revealed. 

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When asked about the visit, he replied with a smile, “I know, but don’t tell any other students”. Mr. O’Connor’s secret was finally out, and thanks to Tinglof and McGoldrick’s visit to CHLA, his true colors were revealed.

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Boys' Admiration for Mr. O'Connor Deepened after Hospital Visit 

The boys’ trip to the hospital was eye-opening and changed their perspective on Mr. O’Connor. McGoldrick, in particular, was deeply inspired. “Mr. O’Connor is the epitome of a man of service,” he said. “I always respected him, but now I’m trying to emulate him and his selfless actions.” 

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Seeing Mr. O’Connor in person, the boys realized how much he cared for those in need and admired him for it. They came away from the hospital with a newfound respect for the man and a greater appreciation for his generosity.

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A Life Dedicated to Service: A Tribute to an Inspiring Teacher 

A life dedicated to service – that’s how you can best describe the inspiring teacher in question. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, McGoldrick said, “If you really think about it, his whole life is service. 

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Half the week he’s teaching, imparting knowledge to his students, and the other half, he’s donating blood and giving his time to children who need it most. It’s pretty amazing!” It’s clear that this teacher is an absolute inspiration and a shining example of what it means to be selfless in the service of others.

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Uncovering the Secret Life of a Math Teacher 

For decades, no one knew that Mr. O’Connor, a math teacher at St. Francis, had another life outside of school. That all changed when Tinglof and McGoldrick made a trip to the hospital and discovered his secret. 

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Rather than retiring, Mr. O’Connor chose to teach part-time while spending much of his time at the hospital. His secret life was finally revealed, and the students of St. Francis were amazed to learn all that he had been doing.

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Inspiring Kids Through Cuddles - The Story of Mr. O'Connor 

After years of cuddling babies without any recognition, Mr. O’Connor’s story received national attention. This newfound fame gave the teacher a chance to inspire his students. On the surface, Mr. O’Connor may have been intimidating to some of his students, but now he hopes to show them a different side of himself. 

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As a result, a few students have mustered up the courage to say hello to him. Through his compassionate actions, Mr. O’Connor has shown that a little love and compassion can go a long way.

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Teacher's Story of Hope Inspires Others to Give Back 

Jim O’Connor, a math teacher, has a powerful story of hope. He had a near-death experience that led him to appreciate life more and be inspired to give back. Mr. O’Connor encourages others to volunteer their time to meaningful causes. “If they’ve gotten something out of it, that’s the main thing,” he told Today. 

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“If there are more people wanting to donate blood, wanting to volunteer, then that’s great.” Mr. O’Connor’s story is a reminder to appreciate life and to show kindness to others by giving back in any way we can.

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