Joseph A. McGowan
February 25, 1980 - April 15, 2007

Joseph A. McGowan passed away in early 2007 as a result of suicide. In Delaware County alone, the average suicide rate rose from 60 in 2005 to 90 in 2007. It is estimated that an average of six people are suicide “survivors” for each suicide that occurs in the United States. In the context of suicide, the word survivor refers to the family and friends of the person who has died by suicide. While those who die by suicide are less stigmatized than in the past, they nevertheless leave family and friends behind to face a long and painful grieving process. This site is dedicated to Joe and all his survivors.

Joe was a one of a kind son, brother, uncle, and to all a friend. A man who lived more in his 27 years than most could have in a million. Most recently, Joe suffered from drug and alcohol addiction, a battle that is more common that one may think. The goal of JAM Day is to bring awareness to the community wide problems faced by so many of our loved ones. Whether it be drugs, alcohol, or depression our community needs to become aware of the effects these diseases have on the individuals, as well as those who love them.

There will be continual information posted regularly, please check back often.

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JAM DAY 2010

We are coming together to celebrate Joe and all he brought to our lives.

The 3rd Annual JAM Day is Saturday, June 19th. There is a softball tournament at O'Hara starting at 10am Saturday morning which runs until 4pm. If you can, please join us for a fun day with family and friends, watch the softballs games and help bring awareness to our community by remembering Joe and his legacy. There will be food, drink and fun for all...a moon bounce and face painting for the kids.

There will be a post tournament party at Maggie O'Neill's from 7pm to 10pm with a $25 open bar and food. All proceeds from JAM Day go to support the Joseph A. McGowan Memorial Foundation which brings suicide awareness to our community. Please feel free to contact me with any questions and please pass this along to anyone who may be interested.

Contact Information:
If you have any questions, please contact us at
annualjamday@gmail.com
lgana42@gmail.com
rayerms@yahoo.com

Donations:
If you would like to donate, please contact Jennifer Clark at
jmcgowanclark@verizon.net

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"May you have the hindsight to know where you've been,
The foresight to know where you are going
And the insight to know you're going to far".