You must read this story.
It is about a very good friend of mine named Joe Casella. Joe is close with several of my partners as well.
Joe is a wonderful human being. He is married with children and another one on the way.
He is founder of Elite Fitness Concepts, a gym and health rehab center in Great Falls, Virginia. The center is now celebrating its tenth anniversary.
Joe is everyone’s best friend. His center has become the “Cheers” of Great Falls.
Joe is like the local celebrity bartender except he kicks your butt when you work out with him. 
He is beloved in our community.
He is “a god-like” physical specimen; a great man; a great friend; a great husband and dad.
Joe was recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. This is a tough disease. It is no longer something that I read about and think that this awful absestos related malady touches people that are older and people that I don’t know. It has now touched someone I do know in the prime of his life. And it hurts.
Joe is taking on this challenge positively. All of his friends and clients are rallying around him. All of us are praying for him and his family. Joe is a fighter and we are with him every step of the way on this journey.
I sent Joe a couple of the Courage Caps yesterday. He is the bravest soul I know. Keep him in your thoughts and take this story as a good life lesson. Celebrate every day.
I was lucky. I worked out with Joe for many years — he would motivate me and kept me strong (both mentally and physically). I will miss Joe very much. He loved his family and his community in Great Falls – Thank you, Ted, for all you said and all you do. Let’s keep praying for Joe’s family.
June 25, 2009. It is my understanding that Joe received very discouraging news last week. Please pray for Joe and his family.
We pray daily for Joe’s full recovery. He is never out of our thoughts. A perpetual smile is always on this mans’ face and now he needs SOMEONE up above to smile down on him.
How beautifully put, Ted. I had the honor of working w/Joe since the first day that Elite opened and for several years after. He truly is a special one, a shining example of a morally straight family man. He and his family are in my prayers daily.