Every small town in America has its heroes. Some are known for their efforts in service to our country; for advancing on the enemy, saving lives, or showing courage under fire. Still others are heroic for dedicating their lives to medical discovery; or they are known for their philanthropic endeavors and gifts to charities. Home town heroes are celebrated in sport winning super bowls and making halls of fame. We name hospitals and parks after these men and women of valor. But, this book depicts the virtues of an altogether different brand of hero! Bob Smiley isn’t a war hero; nor is he a distinguished doctor, or statesman. And although he is a local sports hero of sorts - that is not truly his claim to fame either. But, Bob Smiley is nevertheless a hero in every sense of the word. With strength and courage, he has endured horrible accidents and diseases which have, at times, left him near death and virtually paralyzed. Just to maintain his minimal wellbeing he has undergone over 50 major surgeries. He has borne all this with a quiet determination and dignity that inspires all who know him. He puts his family first in his quest to not simply endure, but to champion each day. Bob Smiley is a small-town resident, but he’s a big time hero! Bob tells his often traumatic story with honesty and grit; but also, with a humor and charm that befits his gutsy approach to life. He depicts his lifestyle in DuBois PA; but it is during recovery form paralysis at a rehabilitation hospital in Pittsburgh that he finds his best source of inspiration. Join Bob as he spends time daily talking to the cross hanging at the foot of his hospital bed. He describes talking to God and taking inventory of the difficulties he would face. His insights into conquering his many barriers and adversities create a riveting story. Bob now invites you to share every intimate soul-searching thought in this, his first book, “ I talked to the Cross” – The Story of Bob Smiley.