This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx

Gerry Cypert is the proud, loving, and devoted father of three children: Emily, 25, Savannah, 21, and Brandon, who recently turned 18. Gerry has struggled tirelessly over the 18½ years of his imprisonment to play a supportive role and remain relevant in the lives of his children. He believes firmly that imprisonment is no excuse to abandon a parent's responsibilities to his or her children, no matter the difficulties and obstacles which must be overcome.