Joel Williamson was about the kindest, most caring, and most selfless soul most of us have ever met. A gem of humanity, he would drop anything to help someone in need, giving his utmost support to his family, his friends, and their passions. His life motto and personal creed was “Show Up and Be Kind” and he lived those words every day. As a lifelong athlete, Joel brought his cycling skills to Team in Training to raise funds and awareness for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Joel fought like a warrior against leukemia and finally laid down to rest in October 2021. Remembering his perseverant optimism, easy-going attitude, and fierce determination has left us with a drive to give back, the way Joel would.

As part of Joel’s treatment, he received blood transfusions twice a week for months, totaling an estimated 500 units. We want to Show Up and Be Kind in Joel’s memory by pledging as many blood donations as he received. Throughout his treatment, Joel was touched by the idea of donors helping keep him alive- now is our chance to help others with similar needs as Joel.
—————————————————–
Please consider pledging to donate blood in Joel’s honor from October 2021 to October 2022. You can make as many pledges as donations you are able to give, throughout the year. Blood transfusions are a part of treatment for blood cancers. For many patients, a cure comes in the form of a bone marrow transplant. While Joel was not a good candidate for a transplant, building a registry of bone marrow donors can lead to a cure for other patients. To learn more about bone marrow donation and to join the registry, please visit https://bethematch.org/
Thank you for helping us honor Joel!