Parkers reign as ‘Family of the Year’

MADISON – Drs. David and Michele Parker and their sons David II and Matthew have been named the 2017 Madison Family of the Year.

The Parkers received their honor at a reception on Jan. 22 at City Hall. The other two finalists were Jay and Betsy Allison and their children John, Mark, Sarah and Paul, along with Hue and Dr. Helen Liens and daughter Lana.

Dr. David and Dr. Michele Parker moved to Madison in 2001 after graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry. They opened Madison Eye Care Center in a modest space on Hughes Road and worked in part-time jobs as they established their practice.

In 2010, the Parkers opened their new facility at 66 Hughes Road. They now employ two associate doctors and 12 employees. “Our philosophy is simple. We treat patients like family,” Michele said. “We truly love them.”

David and Michele volunteer at Rainbow Elementary School where son David II is in sixth grade and son Matthew is in fourth grade. David and Michele also coach their sons on sports teams and volunteer with Trinity Baptist Church.

Five years ago, Michele was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer. By summer 2016, the Parkers were thankful for Michele’s five-year mark as cancer-free. However, in July, Michele learned the devastating news that the cancer had returned.

Today, as Michele undergoes more treatment, “the Parkers are still the same loving, active, close-knit family as always,” LeAnne McGee, Family of the Year committee chairman, said.

The Parker boys are fun-loving, active participants in the Madison community. Avid athletes, David II plays Upward flag football, Upward basketball and golf at Madison Golf Center. Matthew also plays golf, as well as tackle football at Madison Academy, and is a talented baseball player.

At school, David II participates with the award-winning math team, running club and archery club; was a school science fair winner; is a Rainbow Rocketeer; and won the school spelling bee.

David II, Matthew and school friends ran in the Liz Hurley Ribbon Run to raise $3,155 for the Huntsville Hospital Foundation Breast Center. Matthew’s baseball team surprised Michele at its last tournament by wearing pink jerseys that said “Michele’s Cancer Crushers.” Matthew’s football team wore pink socks during October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

David and Michele are proud of the next generation of Madison citizens they are nurturing at home. “I could not be more proud of the way that our family has unconditionally and unselfishly supported, loved and encouraged each other through this journey,” Michele said of her sons and husband.