My wife Jodi and I are the parents of Caroline.  The inspiration behind Caroline’s Hope.

This all began on February 7th 2003, when Jodi and Caroline were in a devastating car accident on Tyburn Road.  Waking up that morning, we had no idea how all our lives would change forever in an instant. 

I’ve never felt more helpless than in those initial days trying to contemplate how we could possibly move forward.  Those days turned into weeks, then months, and we slowly started picking up the pieces one day at a time.  Caroline is now 24 and is living proof that you can still find happiness.  We want to share our story and help others do the same.

How I know Caroline: Joe’s connection to Caroline’s Hope began through his wife, Tammy, who has been longtime friends with Jodi Lanctot. Through that relationship, Joe and Mike Lanctot developed both a friendship and a professional connection, eventually working together when Mike designed a website for a business Joe was a partner in.

Why I am here: During a conversation at a friend’s house, Mike and I discussed taking Caroline’s Hope to the next level—and here we are.

Favorite memory: I'm inspired by Caroline’s strength, determination, and artwork, as well as by Mike and his family. I'm proud to be part of such an impactful foundation.

How I know Caroline: I am a longtime friend, and huge fan of the Lanctot family and I have known Mike for 40+ years.  I have supported and admired Caroline, Mike, Jodi, and Jillian for their inspirational example.

Why I am here: I would always support the Lanctot’s with this extraordinary need, but when Mike shared with me his outreach to strangers with spinal cord injuries, in their exact hour of despair, I realized I wanted to do more.

Favorite memory: A while back at Mike’s nephews’ engagement celebration, I observed the most beautiful interaction between Mike and Caroline.  I remain inspired by Mike, and this family’s ability to find so much joy in the shadow of so many challenges. 

How I know Caroline: I met Caroline 22 years ago through my husband (Jodi’s favorite cousin), and I’ve been a part of her 'village' ever since.

Why I’m here:   I want to help Mike and Jodi channel their 20+ years of experience into a resource that lightens the load—both emotionally and financially—for families dealing with spinal cord injuries.

Favorite memory: Caroline at the beach, wind in her hair, smiling while her dad blasts music and tries to relive his skimboarding glory days.

How I know Caroline: I am Caroline's Aunt Maryann. After Bishop Egan/Conwell High and then Penn State University, I worked as a journalist for more than 40 years. Her story of survival, through the worst that can happen and into tears, fears, pain, love and laughter, is truly unique and needs to be shared. 

Why I'm here: So others will know that there is HOPE and life after a spinal cord injury. 

Favorite Memory: My favorite experience with Caroline, Mike, Jodi, and our family is singing loud and wheelchair dancing to the tune of Sweet Caroline...arms raised in happy triumph.