A significant event occurred in Jim's life when his son was born. His son, Michael, was born weighing 3 pounds, 14 ounces. He also had several health issues that were eventually diagnosed as a growth disorder. The growth disorder had many characteristics. Most significantly, the disorder made Michael, throughout his life, smaller and slighter than most children or adults. These characteristics led to Michael looking "different." Throughout Michael's life, there were many experiences where he was judged, teased, and bullied because he was small. Children and adults said cruel and inappropriate things to Michael, and stares and rejections were a constant part of his life. As this situation had the potential of being very defeating to both Michael and Jim, both used the experiences they had as a way to shape who they would become and what would happen in their lives.

Inspired by personal experiences, "Big Ollie":



Educates students, parents, and teachers about the effects of bullying on children.
Helps others understand that being different is OK, and judgment should not be based on how people look on the outside, but who they are in the inside.
Is a resource for teachers and anyone who works with children, emphasizing that no child should be afraid to go to school.