An Inspiring Life

Joseph Maley’s Journey

In many ways, Joseph Maley was a typical teenager. He could wolf down pizza with power. He would brainfreeze his way through an ice cream and ignore the pain. He loved animated films. He loved girls and the girls loved him. So far, he sounds perfectly ordinary, but he was amazing.

Physically, Joseph Maley was a young man challenged by confining disabilities. His medical hardships made him known to nearly every department at Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis.

But, on the inside, he was the best of every human being. Joseph possessed an open and loving soul that radiated far beyond the boundaries of his physical disabilities.

Imagine yourself, accepting everyone you met with unconditional love, no judging a book by its cover, no prejudice, and never expecting a reward for your kindness. Go one step further. Suppose you treated everyone you met, like your mom or dad.

That was Joseph.

He couldn’t speak, but you would find yourself engaged in a conversation with his eyes and a laugh that could ripple the leaves of a tree. Without a word, Joseph would motivate you to be a better person, remind you to be grateful for what you have, and encourage you to help others.

Joseph’s early death at the age of 18 from Leukemia was his final reminder for us to courageously live in service to others.

This spirit, Joseph’s spirit, is the spark that ignites the Joseph Maley Foundation to help children of all abilities, without prejudice and with the greatest of care.

- Story by Joseph's Best Buddy Conrad Piccirillo