Tom Bircher IS an Ironman

I was fortunate enough to be let into the life of Tom Bircher, a cancer survivor and incredibly dedicated athlete. His father, seen hugging him here, exudes about as much pride in his son as one can, and actually connected us after a different assignment I was working on. The entire Bircher family welcomed me with open arms when I made the trek up to Lake Placid to witness Tom's third Ironman triathalon. Arguably one of the most physically challenging days of shooting I've had to date (in my short career!) but something I will certainly never forget. Thanks for the experience!Copyright 2008 Valley News - May not be printed or reused without permission