Josephine Gay, age 7

picture from NBC

 

Joey turned 7 three days before becoming an angel and was looking forward to celebrating at her birthday party with many of her friends the next day (many of these friends became angels too). Joey was a very special person and she inspired everyone she met. Joey was autistic and severely apraxic. She could not speak, yet she touched the lives of so many around her: teachers, therapists, friends, neighbors, all loved and cherished her. Joey was social and affectionate; she smiled, she loved hugs, and she even had a wonderful sense of humor. Her spirit was indomitable. She participated in rigorous therapy and treatment on a daily basis without complaint. She loved to play with her Barbie dolls, iPad, and computer, swim, swing, and be anywhere her sisters were.

Josephine loved the color purple. Born in Maryland, she grew up in a family of Ravens fans and developed an affinity for all things purple. She rarely left the house without wearing something purple. After her passing, many friends who visited wore purple clothing to honor her. Her family has honored her inspiring and generous spirit by establishing Joey’s Fund in her name through the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism. The proceeds of this fund will help families raising autistic children.

How to donate:
Online: Doug Flutie Foundation

On the donation page please select “in Memory of” and type “Joey’s Fund” in the box for “acknowledgement/address and comments,”

By Mail:
Send checks to:
The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism
Specify “In Memory of Josephine Gay” on the check.
Mailing address:
The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism
PO Box 767
Framingham, MA 01701

Information obtained from a statement from Bob and Michele Gay (Joey's parents) to NBC Connecticut.


I will remember Josephine by wearing purple on November 1st, December 11th and 14th.
Next summer I will set up a Lemonade stand (which I read Joey liked to do too) and the proceeds I will give to the foundation above.