Bring
Lance
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Olga and Josh Engroff, New Jersey, USA
My husband and I have lived in the same building with Phil and Lance for several years now. Whenever we've seen them together, even before we knew them, there's been an obvious, very close bond between them. My husband even remarked on Phil's attentiveness to Lance several times to me in private. Since meeting them officially about a year ago, when our daughter Zoe was born, we've spent a lot of time together in the play room. Phil is always very focused, loving, and engaged with Lance, talking to him about whatever activity they were doing, mentoring him. Lance, too, is engaged on these occasions, clearly enjoying his time with his Dad.
I should note that I only saw Lance with his mother a couple of times over the years, who seemed uninvolved with Lance, and clearly uninterested in meeting other parents.
Upon hearing about Lance's abduction, we were heartbroken. This is a legal and moral outrage that must be set right. We give our whole-hearted support to Phil as he fights for justice and the return of his son.
Steve LoBosco, New Jersey, USA
I have known Phil and Lance for the past 2 1/2 years and it has been an absolute pleasure knowing these fine gentlemen! I first met Lance in Jersey City, near where Phil and Lance live, presently. When I first saw this adorable young boy, I could see the love in his Father's, Phil's, eyes. Phil has devoted his entire life to Lance, with the exception of his work life, which I am sure was primarily for Lance and his Wife, if you know Phil--as well as I know him. The most memorable day with Lance and Phil, came in December 2008, when we -- my 2 Boys and I -- had the pleasure of going to what Lance calls "The Big Mall". The Big Mall is the Palisades Mall, up in Nyack, NY near White Plains. It is a wonderful place for children and adults, as Phil, Lance, my 2 sons and me found out as we went on rides, shopped, laughed, ate, etc. We had just heck of a fun time with each other! When I remember asking Lance if he had a good time, he smiled widely and gestured his joy with his eyes in such a unique, amiable way that I will never forget for life!
On the way home Phil tried to keep Lance awake so that he would not stay up all night, and Lance kept posing his unique and unforgettable smile and the funny expression he does with his eyes!
I should also say for now that it's been a privilege knowing Phil and Lance, because they have made my life and my family's lives far better. Lance is such a wonderful, bright, and pleasant young man to be around! My youngest son still talks about Lance and laughs, asking me when we will get to go back to the Big Mall. I hope that the Greek authorities and Lance's mom in Greece come to their senses and bring Lance back to Phil, as my Family and I are holding out hope and look forward to our next trip to the Big Mall with Phil and Lance! Phil is Lance's life and Lance is Phil's life, and he rightfully belongs with his father, who is best suited and able to take care of him. God be with you Phil and Lance! Wherever you are Lance, come on back home, and I promise that we will revisit the "Big Mall"!!!!!
Ted Kato, New York, USA
I've known Phil for about 6-7 years. So I've seen Phil go through various stages of life before and after Lance's birth. And one thing for sure, is that Phil is a wonderful, devoted and loving father who will not stop talking about Lance. When I send Phil an occasional email, I would get a bunch of Lance's pics in return. He is such a true father to such a wonderful, wonderful kid.
I know some of you reading this don't know Phil personally. Phil is a responsible, caring and thoughtful guy in general. I wouldn't want to rate or compare fathers, but he's not the bad fathers that you hear about, he's a great and loving father to his kid so it's just wrong for them to be separated like this. Both Phil and Lance do not deserve losing each other, in anyway, shape or form.
I will pray for Lance's return and Phil, you will always have my support.
Tanya Attaluri, New York, USA
I’ve known Phil for 5 years now, and our most fun and memorable conversations have been about Lance and how quickly he is growing up. Phil is a great person who cares a lot about the people around him. He is very caring and responsible. He’s always been a wonderful manager – so easy to talk to and so understanding about everything.
I remember how excited he was about becoming a father and would call his baby “little Diggle”. Although I’ve only seen Phil and Lance together a couple of times, it was very easy to see how much Phil loves his son. Anyone who talks to Phil will know he is a very proud father. Lance is a great kid, and Phil does everything to make sure Lance knows it. They both do not deserve being separated. I am sure Lance misses his dad terribly! I hope they are united again very soon.
Vasantharaj Prince, Illinois, USA
I was very fortunate to work for Phil Diggle from 2004 thru 2008. Very sincere, hardworking, honest individual. During that time, I myself as a father of two sons (Jonathan 4 years & Jason 1 year), had many opportunities to interact with Phil to discuss kid's growth. He tells me he takes his son to Liberty Science center during every weekend to entertain him whole day there with the year long entry pass they have . I also came to know Super Nanny show and The Little Gym concepts from Phil. He was very keen to know Indian culture and wants to know how kids are grown there.
I can clearly understand his love towards his son when he explains each and everything Lance does everyday. More than Phil, Lance would miss his Daddy miserably. Hopefully Phil gets his lovable child back here in USA to him. A child is not complete and can't grow peacefully without Dad and Mom's love and affection towards them. Neither Phil nor Lance deserve this pain and agony.