I have spoken with Joe several times over the past couple of days. He wanted me to post something on the board and I've been trying to find the words to put onto paper that he expressed to me. He is so gracious and thankful and overwhelmed and amazed at the generosity of his friends. The $2300 that had been collected as of Wednesday came at just the right time for him. He said that his disability (former military) should kick in within about 2-3 more weeks and the money we sent him would take care of so many things that had been pressing on his mind and making it difficult to concentrate on getting better. He has his 18-Wheeler up for sale and traded his daily driver Ford diesel w/ a manual transmission for a smaller truck with an automatic transmission. Thankfully, he will not have to sell his car. The main reason that I personally am thankful for this is that his cars and tinkering with them have been a huge part of his life and losing that, on top of so much else at this time, would be even more detrimental to his mental recovery. His occupational therapist looked at the motor on the stand in his garage and said that the mental and physical tests of putting that motor together would be better than any therapy that you could buy. (Gee, only if insurance would pay for the pistons he needs )

Unfortunately, at this time it doesn't look like he'll be attending the Shootout in two weeks. He's just not well enough to handle the type of stress involved at this time and none of us want to push him. We've discussed the idea of him heading down here in a few months, or whenever he's ready, to hang out with friends and watch motors being built -- helping to rebuild those mental connections that the stroke disconnected. He seems so mild mannered lately; honestly, I don't think he'll ever be our "bitter 'ole grump face" again...but you never know. Tony, you may have to work overtime to get his feathers ruffled once he's back :p

Sending all of Joe's love and thanks --

Angie

 

My prayers are with Joe and his family. I hope he gets back on his feet soon.

Bruce

 

Great to hear that Joe is getting around some what.

God bless ya Joe and I hope to see ya at the track soon!

Coach

 

I'm happy Joe is getting along somewhat better. It's going to take awhile for a full recovery. Our prayers are with you Joe.

Tom and Bev

PS Get your redneck *** healed up.