JoePa is similar to my dad in many ways. Both love teaching, both love Penn State and both have cancer. One of the differences is how they were treated. When my dad was diagnosed with cancer, his friends in the faculty came together to give him love and support. He was able to take the time he needed to recover, the students sent him fun gifts and kind words. His friends even got him a signed letter from JoePa. Being able to go back to work has been something my dad has been looking forward to since his surgery in late October. The joy of teaching, the love of his students and the ability to work with good people was something he talked about all the time. Having such a supportive work environment was something that helped my dad make the recovery he's making today.
JoePa did not have the same experience. After being fired over the phone after 61 years working at this institution, JoePa was diagnosed with cancer. One of the most important parts of the recovery process is having a positive attitude. I think that his broken heart prevented him from having the will to fight this disease.
Joe and Sue took the time to send my dad a letter. They told him that he was a blessing to all and that the whole Penn State family was pulling for him. It takes a remarkable person to take the time to personally write that letter to my dad. JoePa was an incredible person, teacher and leader. He taught us to succeed with honor and to always put others before yourself. Even in his death, the Paternos asked that donations be made not to the football program or to the university but to the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania or THON. What an incredible family.
JoePa, your actions over the past 61 years speak volumes about your character and personality. You always thought of others before yourself and thought education was the most important thing you could earn at a university. You will be missed, but never forgotten. WE ARE because YOU WERE and ALWAYS WILL BE Penn State.
JoePa did not have the same experience. After being fired over the phone after 61 years working at this institution, JoePa was diagnosed with cancer. One of the most important parts of the recovery process is having a positive attitude. I think that his broken heart prevented him from having the will to fight this disease.
Joe and Sue took the time to send my dad a letter. They told him that he was a blessing to all and that the whole Penn State family was pulling for him. It takes a remarkable person to take the time to personally write that letter to my dad. JoePa was an incredible person, teacher and leader. He taught us to succeed with honor and to always put others before yourself. Even in his death, the Paternos asked that donations be made not to the football program or to the university but to the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania or THON. What an incredible family.
JoePa, your actions over the past 61 years speak volumes about your character and personality. You always thought of others before yourself and thought education was the most important thing you could earn at a university. You will be missed, but never forgotten. WE ARE because YOU WERE and ALWAYS WILL BE Penn State.
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