I met Joe back in 2013, he was one of two men who came to my home bright and early to do the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. This was worse than…
I met Joe back in 2013, he was one of two men who came to my home bright and early to do the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. This was worse than finding my late husband. I was quickly greeted by the men, however only one stood out. I later relearned his name was Joe. As sick as I was sending my child far away at his most vulnerable time, Joe spoke with such ease, his loving smile and gentle way could not help but lower by heart rate a little. The men approached M’s room. I do not think it is important to go into detail on the next horrific 20 min. The entire time M was screaming, kicking, and crying, Joe was in his ear whispering it’s going to be ok. As the men took M, unwillingly to their car, Joe looked up at me as if to say I’m going to take care of your baby. The day seemed like years. 11:30 that same evening I received a phone call, it was Joe. Knowing how distressed I was, I’m sure any other parent in this situation would be. I heard that voice on the other end of my phone. To my delight it was Joe reassuring me that M is in great hands and got there safe. He did not have to go on any further. However, Joe did. He went on to tell me how fantastic, brilliant, and witty M is. They shared many commonalities like Hockey and Mix Martial Arts. This kept M busy during the very horrifying plane ride. Joe said M has what it takes to be a winner. He just requires some help, the place he was going had what he needed. He asked me to keep in touch with him throughout M’s stay. I did not, as I felt as though I’d be a bother to him with the crazy schedule he has. The year went by, M went on to a Therapeutic Boarding School graduated on July of 2014. He was ready to come home and use his skills to begin his new productive and happy life. That lasted 2 months. M was back to smoking pot, disobeying my authority, torturing his younger brother, and overall treating the home like a garbage dump. After many calls, many Doctors, I started becoming hopeless. He will be 18 shortly. I finally got the idea to call Joe. He has been transporting kids for many years now. I grabbed my phone, and there was that reassuring voice. I asked if he remembered me, and he said of course. I told him everything, he told me how this relapse sometimes happens, and to try to hold it together. He did not give any advice, and reminded me he is not a therapist, but a man who has taken many children back to nature after the first try does not work sometimes. Joe talked it over with his partner Clinton, and suggested that I speak to an educational consultant. Understanding my state of mind, Joe asked me if I felt comfortable if he drove from Long Island to my home (hours away) in NJ on Saturday. I of course did not want him to do that, I felt like such an imposition. He insisted, and came early the following morning. He spoke to my younger son, and to myself for a while. M woke up came downstairs and saw Joe, figured he was being sent away, he threw himself in to an anxiety driven breakdown. Joe got up and said he was just there to visit, he told him I shared what has been going on and he wanted to talk to you himself. They had developed such a bond that some of my letters from my son in wilderness, mentioned Joe. The tantrum continued, Joe stood up and opened his arms and said” would I be asking for a hug if I was transporting you somewhere”. M hugged him and immediately began catching up. I gave them a lone time which lasted hours. When he left M told me it was life changing. Joe has continually given me emotional support while I’m deciding what to do with my son. I have so many fears for his future. The bottom line is that day in September 2014 was the worst day of my life. If it were not for Joe, who knows what would have happened. Joe adores his job, kids, and just helping people. He goes so over and above his job description, it is unreal. I would recommend him to anyone who is in my position. He’s a superior human being and I am better for knowing hi.m – A. New Jersey