Joe Harper passed away on January 2nd, 2010 after leaving a lasting legacy and smiles on the faces of all those who knew him. Joe was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy before he was ten and his family struggled with rapidly-worsening muscle weakness and he and his family decided that rather than withdrawing from the world, they would make a difference.
His parents noted, “Our decision to open this foundation (wheeledscotsman.com) was based on personal trials and experiences. From the time he (Joey) first became ill, it was difficult finding support and assistance in making our home accessible. Although we did find the way and means to make our home more functional; we decided there must be a better way.”
Since 2007, Joey’s effort towards making live easier for other struggling with disability has been funded through The Wheeled Scotsman Foundation with donations and proceeds from events like The Wheeled Scotman’s Cup and the Black Sheep 5K.
We encourage our members to donate to Joey’s foundation in his honor and, as Chris, his father said, “to keep his legacy alive”. Burial will be on January 6th at St. John Neumann Cemetary.
January 4th, 2010 at 10:13 am
I personally had the great pleasure of meeting some of you at our Scotsman cup. Joey really loved watching the guys play and the especially this years more spirited game. We believe he is working on putting a team together in heaven as we speak. We will look forward to seeing you again on the pitch this year.
We want to thank you on Joey’s behalf for all your support with the foundation and Chris and I would also like to thank you for your prayers and kind thoughts.
January 4th, 2010 at 11:14 am
Rest in peace Joey. We will all miss you.
January 4th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
Damn, I feel for you guys. We (Midnight Riders) just lost one of our own too. I’ll make a donation, won’t be much, but it’s something. I encourage you to do the same to the Jenny Katz Scholarship Fund the Riders have set up at http://midnightriders.com
Again, sorry for the loss, it sucks to see the ranks of MLS supporters groups slowly diminishing through tragedies like this.
January 10th, 2010 at 11:45 am
Our deepest condolences on the passing of Joey.Although we live here in Las Vegas, NV, long time friends of Rinny ( Joey’s Aunt).
We are forwarding a donation in memory of Joey.
God Bless!