UPDATE: The memory of Joe Skinner, a beloved Bishop Moore High School baseball star, will be celebrated this Friday, December 19, at the 10th annual SkinnerStrong Charity Golf Tournament in Orlando. This milestone event not only honors Joe’s legacy but also serves as a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of tragedy.
Just announced, the tournament at Shingle Creek Golf Club continues to raise funds for childhood leukemia research, helping families battling this devastating disease. Joe, who tragically lost his life to a rare form of leukemia at just 17 years old on April 30, 2016, is remembered for his vibrant spirit and unyielding strength.
“The tournament is more than just a golf event; it’s about keeping Joe’s memory alive,” says Judy Skinner, Joe’s mother. “It feels like yesterday. You never get over when one of your children dies.” Despite the passage of time, the grief remains palpable yet intertwined with purpose as they continue to advocate for those affected by leukemia.
Joe was not only a talented athlete, committed to play baseball at the University of Central Florida, but also a compassionate friend who united diverse groups around him. His infectious enthusiasm and unwavering spirit inspired everyone who knew him. “He was a light,” Judy reflects. “He treated everybody like they were his best friend.”
In a cruel twist of fate, Joe’s promising future was cut short when he was diagnosed with hypodiploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia, one of the rarest forms of cancer. His battle against the disease, which lasted just a few months, showcased his remarkable courage. Joe continued to support his team, even as he faced treatment and physical challenges.
With the SkinnerStrong Foundation, Joe’s parents, Judy and Scott Skinner, have transformed their loss into a lifeline for others. The foundation not only raises funds for critical research but also supports families navigating the horrors of childhood cancer. “Joe’s legacy is about character, resilience, and love,” Scott states. “Every swing, every laugh, every reunion at this golf tournament is a reminder that his light continues to shine.”
This year’s tournament promises to draw a huge crowd, with golfers participating to honor Joe’s memory and contribute to a cause that helps countless families. The SkinnerStrong Foundation has made significant strides in funding research and awareness around childhood leukemia, ensuring that Joe’s impact extends far beyond his years.
As the tournament approaches, anticipation builds not just for the competition, but for the heartwarming stories of those who have been touched by Joe’s legacy. His life, though tragically brief, continues to resonate through the lives he inspired and the change he catalyzed.
In a world often overshadowed by despair, Joe Skinner’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope. His parents remind us all that while grief may never fully fade, the joy and impact of a life well-lived can forge pathways to healing and unity.
For more information on participating in the SkinnerStrong Golf Tournament or to donate, visit skinnerstrong.org/events-registration. Join in honoring a remarkable young man whose spirit lives on in every swing of the club and every dollar raised.
