Letter: Lane’s selflessness knows no bounds

My name is Ryan Parrott and I feel particularly passionate about the difficulties facing burn survivors, as I served for eight years in the United States Navy as a SEAL and have been burned due to a roadside bomb.

I started a nonprofit a few years ago to help burn survivors, and a man named Ace Lane, a fellow burn survivor, stepped up to the plate, reflecting on his own injuries and committed to helping us grow. From an awareness perspective, to funding our efforts through his own personal giving, to hosting events benefiting my organization, he has been a pinnacle mentor to me and supporter to our growth and ability to help other burn survivors and their families.

While Ace has dealt with a lot in the past few months, he continues to put these stressors aside to support multiple causes and individuals, all while raising his three boys to become professional, educated and patriotic Americans.

As a soldier who has spent my adult life supporting our country on and off the battlefield, I would not be where I am today without Ace’s support and guidance. He asks nothing in return and always checks in to make sure that everyone around him has what they need, while always brainstorming on how he can best support the needs of others. He is trustworthy and honest. He is philanthropic and giving.

I am shocked to learn that others are characterizing Ace in an unflattering manner. My personal experience with Ace is that he is a man of the upmost character. He had granted my organization significant funds due to the success of the XTERRA Triathlons, making a huge difference in the lives of thousands of soldiers, first responders and civilians who have suffered significant burn injuries.

I am honored to know Ace Lane and have him in my life, and without him, our ability to advance our mission would be impossible. Many people in life have been blessed to feel the support that Ace extends, which, in my opinion, is the true definition of a servant of our Lord and Savior.

Ryan “Birdman” Parrott

Dallas