How Dale Pollak inventor of VAuto Motivated My Daughter...
I hope all those traveling to New Orleans for the NADA Show remain safe. With flights being canceled and the surprising weather—a blizzard in New Orleans, of all things—many have opted to drive. I intended to make the drive yesterday, but it was not feasible.
This weather got me reflecting on a trip we made to NADA a couple of years ago, one that left a lasting impact on my daughter, Parker.
For those unaware, Parker has epilepsy. It has been quite manageable through diet, exercise, and a small amount of medication, though she occasionally feels different. Like any parent, Brittany Spaniel and I have always supported her, often sharing the story of Dale Pollak—how I initially spoke with him years ago and only later discovered he’s legally blind.
When we took Parker to NADA, she was 13, and I thought meeting Dale might help her see challenges in a new light. As we approached the massive Cox Automotive booth, I warned her that Dale would probably be too busy to talk. She was intrigued by him, especially after I told her about the interview I had done with him years earlier.
Here's the interview at NADA in New Orleans 10 years ago https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dX8cdYM5yk4
When we arrived, Dale was deep in meetings. His handler approached us and gently explained he was tied up that day. I said, “This isn’t for me—it’s for my daughter.” I explained Parker’s story and how I thought Dale could inspire her.
The handler paused, then went over to Dale. I watched as she leaned in and whispered something to him. Dale immediately excused himself from a group of well-dressed dealers, walked over, and greeted Parker with warmth and focus.
I introduced them, saying, “Dale, this is my daughter Parker. She has epilepsy, and I told her your story.” Without hesitation, he took over, speaking directly to her. Their conversation was private, heartfelt, and incredibly inspiring. I recorded it, but I’ve kept it to myself—those words were for Parker.
To this day, Dale’s advice sticks with her. He told her, “Use your handicap as your strength—it will be your superpower.”
Parker took those words to heart. Since that meeting, she’s pushed herself in sports—track, soccer, volleyball—and in life. She still talks about how much that moment meant to her.
We had planned to attend NADA in New Orleans this weekend, but with the weather and a packed schedule, it just wasn’t in the cards. Parker had hoped to thank Dale in person and pick up his book.
If you’re heading to NADA, I encourage you to stop by and see Dale Pollak. Listen to his speech, grab his book, and let his story inspire you. You never know whose life it might touch—just like it did for Parker.
S/O to Dale for taking time out for Parker and to NADA for giving Parker a pass for the day.
#NADA2025 #Inspiration #DalePollak #EpilepsyAwareness #OvercomingChallenges #Empowerment #StrengthThroughAdversity #Superpower #CoxAutomotive #CarBusiness #ParentingWins
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