UPDATE: The legacy of baseball star Joe Skinner is shining brightly as his family prepares for the 10th Annual SkinnerStrong Charity Golf Tournament on December 19 at Shingle Creek Golf Club in Orlando. A decade after his passing from leukemia at just 17 years old, Joe’s impact continues to resonate through fundraising efforts aimed at helping families facing similar battles.
Joe’s parents, Judy and Scott Skinner, are determined to keep his spirit alive. “It doesn’t feel like 10 years; it feels like yesterday,” Judy says, emphasizing the unending grief of losing a child. This tournament is not just a fundraising event; it’s a celebration of a life lived fully and a mission to support childhood cancer research.
Joe was a beloved player at Bishop Moore High School, where he shone as a third baseman and team leader. His commitment to UCF was a dream realized until his world was cruelly altered by a cancer diagnosis in December 2015. In just a few months, he went from a promising future to enduring severe treatments that ultimately took his life on April 30, 2016.
Despite his illness, Joe remained a beacon of hope and resilience. He continued to support his teammates and showed up for practices whenever he could. His final at-bat, taken to roaring applause, transcended the game—symbolizing dignity and perseverance in the face of despair.
The SkinnerStrong Foundation was established to honor Joe’s memory, raising critical funds for leukemia research and supporting families thrust into the healthcare system unexpectedly. The foundation reflects Joe’s enduring legacy, reminding us that his light continues to shine through every dollar raised and every life touched.
According to Scott Skinner, “Joe’s legacy is about more than baseball. It’s about character, resilience, and love.” This sentiment fuels the mission of the foundation, which aims to provide support and hope to those affected by childhood cancer.
As the tournament approaches, anticipation builds around the community’s support. Participants are ready to make a difference, with every swing of the club representing a stand against despair. The event serves not only to honor Joe but also to inspire those facing similar battles.
Joe Skinner’s story is far from over; it continues to inspire action and compassion. His unwavering spirit and kindness remind us all of the power of community and the importance of supporting one another.
Join the Skinners in this remarkable journey to keep Joe’s memory alive by participating in the tournament or donating at skinnerstrong.org/events-registration. Together, we can ensure that Joe’s legacy lives on, touching countless lives for years to come.
