Scott Hancock, a man who overcame polio to excel in advocacy, construction, and writing, left an indelible mark on the lives of those around him. His wife Colleen, who has dedicated her life to sharing his story, emphasizes that Scott’s impact went far beyond his impressive achievements.
Born with polio, which attacked the nerves in his legs at age 4, Scott faced numerous challenges throughout his life. Despite being told he would never walk or be independent, his parents refused to treat him differently, instilling in him a strong sense of resilience and determination.
Scott’s resourcefulness and adaptability served him well, as he learned to sell worms, dig for fishermen, and even fix roller skates to support himself and buy small gifts for his mother. He eventually attended Idaho State University, where he graduated from the first ever class of Highland High School in 1964.
Scott’s achievements extend far beyond his personal accomplishments. He played a crucial role in writing Idaho’s Americans with Disabilities Act legislation and served on multiple state councils for people with disabilities. He also directed a senior program, traveling the state to provide meal services and financial assistance to seniors in need.
In addition to his advocacy work, Scott was an accomplished writer, contributing to several publications, including the Island Park News, Blackfoot Morning News, and Idaho Magazine. His passion project, “Tales from the High Lonesome,” a two-volume series of short stories about his life, left an indelible mark on readers.
Through his writings, Scott shared his story of resilience and determination, inspiring countless individuals to persevere in the face of adversity. As his wife Colleen notes, writing was just one aspect of Scott’s impressive legacy, which includes raising children who were not his own as if they were, making friends everywhere, and loving people with an open heart.
Colleen continues to honor Scott’s memory by publishing his work, including a third volume of “Tales from the High Lonesome” and plans for a fourth book. As she says, sharing her husband’s legacy is about honoring the impact he never fully saw in himself, leaving behind a testament to resilience that will inspire generations to come.
Source: https://www.ksl.com/article/51364706/the-dash-that-defined-him-local-mans-legacy-that-he-was-too-humble-to-see