Daniel French gave up his savings and health to keep his son debt-free through college, only to feel marginalized by the student loan forgiveness debate. His story highlights the struggle of hardworking Americans overlooked in national discussions. As politicians push for widespread loan relief, French’s sacrifices raise critical questions about fairness and responsibility.
Father Feels Overlooked Amid Push for Loan Forgiveness
A father who sacrificed his savings and health to ensure his son’s debt-free college graduation feels marginalized in the student loan forgiveness debate. He believes in personal responsibility for debts and finds the current conversation frustrating.
The Sacrifice of Savings and Health
Daniel French, a Petco store manager, worked tirelessly to cover his son’s college costs. The debt he paid came at a personal cost, affecting both his health and retirement plans.
Extended Work Years to Rebuild Retirement
French now faces an additional decade of work to replenish his retirement savings. He strongly opposes the idea of his tax dollars being used to forgive others’ loans.
Feeling Excluded in the National Conversation
With the Biden administration advocating for widespread student loan forgiveness, French feels people like him are overlooked. He sees a gap in the national dialogue that ignores those who made significant personal sacrifices.
A Life in Retail and Military Service
French, 58, resides in Roseburg, Oregon, and has dedicated nearly 30 years to retail management. His background includes six years in the Army during the Gulf War, coming from a lower-middle-class family.
Education Never a Family Focus
Growing up, higher education wasn’t a priority in French’s household. The emphasis was on high school graduation and securing a job.
A Father’s Financial Reality
French’s father had a clear stance: college wasn’t a priority, and paying for it would be French’s responsibility. This shaped French’s own approach to his son’s education.
Surprised by His Son’s Ambition
When his son Nathan expressed a desire to attend college, French was taken aback. He began to ponder the financial challenge of funding his son’s education.
Determined to Avoid Student Loan Burden
Aware of the crippling impact of student loan debt, French vowed to pay for his son’s college education. This commitment stemmed from his desire to protect his son from lifelong financial strain.
A Father’s Unwavering Commitment
Daniel French vowed to ensure his son attended college debt-free, no matter the personal cost. His dedication saw him liquidate retirement accounts, only to find the funds covered just six months of expenses.
Extraordinary Measures to Fund Education
To support his son’s education, French sold his house, took on various odd jobs, and sent $1,000 from his paycheck each month. Over eight years, he made every possible effort to provide for his son’s education.
Nathan’s Educational Journey
Nathan began his studies at a nursing school in Arizona, later transferring to a business program in Finland. He graduated this year and is now pursuing a graduate degree before entering the workforce.
Financial and Physical Toll
French estimates he spent around $120,000 on his son’s education, a significant financial burden. The physical toll resulted in three spinal surgeries, leaving him worn out but relieved to return to his regular job.
The Political Landscape of Loan Forgiveness
President Biden’s ongoing efforts to provide student loan relief have been significant, wiping away billions in federal student loans. The latest proposal aims to cancel loans for various categories of borrowers amid rising national debt.
French’s Perspective on Loan Forgiveness
French believes student loan debt should not be a political issue or taxpayer responsibility. He emphasizes personal accountability for financial decisions, especially regarding loans.
Feeling Marginalized in the Debate
The push for student loan forgiveness feels like a “bitter pill” to French, who feels excluded from the national conversation. He argues that parents like him, who sacrifice greatly, are often overlooked.
Misconceptions About Parents Who Pay
French contends that many parents who fund their children’s education are not wealthy but make significant sacrifices. These efforts often go unrecognized in the broader dialogue.
No Regrets for Personal Sacrifices
Despite the challenges, French has no regrets about his sacrifices for his children’s education. He believes his investment in their future was the best possible use of his money.
