Team 3572 lost a team member today. Over three hundred of the participants at the Michigan State Championship signed a card for Joey when he was preparing for his bone marrow transplant. We were grateful for that support and it definitely brightened his day (and ours) to see all the names that stopped to think about him. Unfortunately, Joey lost his fight this afternoon.
Joey played a big role in our marketing and handled most of our graphics for sponsor stickers and t-shirts at a computer right next to me during build season. As a coach and teacher, I am struggling to figure out just how to have these conversations with my team and students. In situations like this, I am reminded just how precious each and every minute is with the ones we hold dear.
To all of you who have reached out in the past, thank you for your continued support.
Im so sorry to hear about you, the team, the mentors, and his family’s loss. Its always hard to lose someone you care about, and I don’t know if I could hold myself together if I lost someone on my team. They are some of the most important people in my life. I wish you, your team and his family the best. If there is anything I can do for you all, if its within my powers, I will do it.
Perhaps hes building robots in a better place. I wish for you to have peace tonight.
Just because something is expected, doesn’t make it any easier or less tragic. I can’t imagine what your team is going through right now, but I hope you know you’re surrounded by a community made of love, support, and robots.
The NC Gears are very sorry for your loss. You are all a great bunch, and I trust that your love and support were (and remain) cherished by Joey and his family.