Adam Pageau: J.B. Hunt driver and Everyday Impact Hero (Cintas Corporation photo)As the well-worn cliche goes, “Not every hero wears a cape.”
In this instance, Adam Pageau wears a uniform shirt emblazoned with the familiar yellow and black rectangular logo of J.B.Hunt Transport.
The company driver from Windsor Locks, Connecticut was one of 10 winners in the Cintas Corporation’s second Everyday Impact Hero Program. He was honored by the Cincinnati-based provider of uniforms and corporate apparel for not just his “strong work ethic, but because of the challenges he overcomes every day before even stepping foot in his truck,” according to a statement from Cintas.
One of Pageau’s two sons, Hunter, has a rare disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy with Respiratory Distress. The 13-year-old uses a power wheelchair every day, and a ventilator around the clock so he can breathe.
“I’m just a typical truck driver with definitely a non-typical family situation,” said Pageau. “My responsibility is to deliver groceries to stores in New York and Boston. It’s a five- to six-day work week. I usually work six days, anywhere from 10 to 14 hours a day. It is demanding but once you’re into it and have a routine between your family responsibilities and financial responsibilities it tends to work itself out.”
Pageau and his wife Sharon, who also have a 10-year-old son, Cole, face constant financial challenges. Hunter’s special medical van, which needed replacing recently, cost $65,000.
“My favorite part of the day is coming home to my family,” he said with a smile. “Hunter is always very positive, makes a huge impact at school and never gives up. That inspires me to do better. I’ve learned the importance of family, of sticking together and persevering.”
Pageau came to the attention of Cintas through the contest.
