I write the following with an enormous heavy broken heart.
I'm sorry to inform you all that Joe finally lost his fight and has sadly passed away.
After a 9 year fight and many gruelling treatments they all took their toll and Joe's kidney's failed.
Joe always thought that each and every poster on this site was his 2nd family, he spent countless hours contributing to this site and was chuffed to pieces when Macmillan acknowledged his contributions.
He wrote to each individual with a personal and understanding approach, he understood how scared not just the person who had been diagnosed was but their family members were too. He was a helping hand for anyone who just needed reassurance, guidance and to know there was someone there if you just needed to talk.
I truly hope that as you face your own journey's you will remember Joe as caring, compassionate, helpful and a friend. When times become difficult and you just need a bit of reassurance, think of Joe as he will be watching over you all willing your journeys to continue, as do I.
I appreciate that this site touches so many people from all different locations and everyone is going through their own situation but if you would like to say a person farewell, Joe's funeral will be on the 23rd April at 11.40am at Agecroft Cemetery, Langley Road, Pendlebury, Swinton M27 8SS, there will be an opportunity to share your experience if you'd like as many don't know how many lives he actually touched.
I end with, Joe my one true love, you can rest now, free from pain and I hope you now have the peace you so truly deserve. From your very proud wife...
RIP my love x
Hello Mandy
It was the least I could do for Joe. Having "spoken" to him many times and knowing how much his help and support was valued by myself and other Community Members I just had to be there.
I am sorry I didn't have chance to say more to you but I felt it more appropriate for you to be with your family at that point.
It's a little known fact but Joe held one of the Community's "Special Contribution Badges" for help and support he provided to other members.
I send you my love and best wishes to you and the family for the future - Joe's posts and memories will live on in the Community and we will not forget him.
if I can do anything for you moving forward please don't hesitate to contact me.
Kind Regards - Brian x
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.
I am a Macmillan volunteer.
Hello Mandy,
I have just found out of Joe`s passing, I actually feel a bit numb & shocked at this sad news. I first `met` Joe not long after I was diagnosed just over 5 years ago. Joe was a wealth of great information and advice, he was obviously a stalwart and courageous man. He never shirked away from giving advice to anyone at all and I can assure you Mandy, he was an extremely well respected member on this forum and he will be sorely missed by all. My sincere condolences to you and your family & wish you all the best in the future. RIP Joe.
Take care, Tom 
