What Would You Do for Your Child? The Story of Tom Vander Woude

What would you do if the person you loved most was in danger—and there was no time to think? Today on the Equip Cast, I sit down with Chris Vander Woude to tell the story of a quiet, faithful father who answered that question with his life. Tom Vander Woude wasn’t famous. He wasn’t flashy. He was a husband, a dad, a farmer, a Navy pilot—and a man who spent his life showing up in ordinary ways. Until one extraordinary moment, when he gave everything to save his son Joseph. In this conversation, you’ll hear how a hidden life of prayer, love, and fatherhood prepared Tom for heroic sacrifice—and why his story is stirring hearts around the world today, even to the point that the Church is considering opening a cause for canonization. This is a story about love, courage, faith, and what it really means to live your life as a gift.

[01:45] Chris’s faith journey
[04:23] Introducing Tom Vanderwoude (Chris’s father)
[09:00] Joseph is born (Down syndrome)
[11:59] How Joseph changed the family
[15:32] Cultural reflection on special needs & abortion
[16:22] Tom’s philosophy: no limitations on Joseph
[17:34] Tom gives his life for Joseph
[23:20] Community response & funeral
[26:17] Long term impact of Tom’s story
[29:21] Possible cause for canonization
[39:52] The Tom Vanderwoude Guild
[44:21] How Joseph has been affected
[45:51] Tom’s hidden life: prayer & marriage
[50:44] Encouragement to take a leap of faith
[51:41] How to connect & learn more

Check out the Tom Vander Woude Guild.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)