For Joe Letourneau, Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

As an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox—he claims to be their #1 fan—Joe Letourneau understands the importance of teamwork.

When he was just six months old, Joe was diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis, which has led to progressive degeneration of his central nervous system. Now 31, Joe has been a consumer with GSIL for 12 years, relying primarily on personal care assistants (PCAs). During that time, he tirelessly worked on his academics, graduating from Goffstown High School and Manchester Community College. GSIL and other partner organizations have played a vital role in his journey.

“GSIL helps me get out of bed in the morning. They make a nice breakfast for me and do my range of motion with me. I feel very glad to have someone come in with me. I enjoy every one of them.”

Joe uses either a manual or power wheelchair for mobility, and his home has been outfitted to maximize his independence. Of course, his family plays a large role in Joe’s life, but parents of children living with disabilities face challenges as well. GSIL helps Joe’s mother, Deborah, continue to work, secure in the knowledge that her son is well cared for.

“GSIL has been a support system for Joseph for 12 years. But it’s also been a support system for me, the parent. It lets you be able to step away and be your own self, to work, to socialize. (GSIL) is a whole organization that impacts many more people than you would think.”

The Red Sox rely on teamwork to achieve success on the field, and Joe’s family does the same to ensure Joe continues to thrive. His dedication to community events and sports requires collaboration between the PCAs and his family, and all parties do their best to follow the New England Patriots’ mantra “Do Your Job.” The PCAs assist with Joe’s at-home personal care needs, and Joe uses other community services to access events that help him be part of the community at large.

It would be impossible to work with Joe and not feel appreciated and valued. “Everyone who takes care of me is not just a PCA, but they are friends,” he says. “Being a PCA is one of the best jobs someone could ever have.”

Deborah feels the impact of the teamwork, too. “People who become PCAs have hearts,” she says, her voice tinged with emotion. “We trust them explicitly with our kids.”

In 2015, it took teamwork and courage for Joe to sing God Bless America during the 7th Inning Stretch during a Red Sox game. “I didn’t feel nervous at all. A few people cried, especially my relatives.” Singing and speaking have been part of Joe’s therapy, and he is still intensely proud of what he accomplished that summer. And while that was a wonderful moment in a life full of collaborative achievement, Joe appreciates everything in life, including navigating his accessible backyard or stargazing from his deck.

“Being able to live at home means I can do stuff with my family. GSIL helps me live independently and stay in my home.”

Call 603-228-9680 or click to donate.

NH Gives
#NHGives is a day to celebrate all the good not-for-profits do in New Hampshire communities! GSIL proudly participates
Read more
man mountain biking
Using E-bikes in NH at National Parks
GSIL’s CEO, Deborah Ritcey applauds Governor Sununu for his advocacy on this topic. “GSIL has many consumers, that
Read more