Enlarge Video 
Download Video
Video RSS
Toomey’s First Day
By Jessica Taloney Reporter
Published: Fri, July 18, 2008 - 5:00 pm
Jessica Taloney
"Faith is what gets us through every second of every day," says Regina Toomey, Joseph's mom.
In the nearly eight months since a crash nearly took his life, the former Satsuma football standout has come along. Joseph suffered a serious spinal cord injury, and initially could only move his shoulders. Now, he has enough muscles to power a manual wheelchair.
"My shoulders and biceps are pretty strong," says Joseph. "I think I might be getting stomach muscles too," he says.
Joseph's friends say they don't mind that he's not quite on his feet yet, but they certainly make sure they keep him on his toes. More than half a dozen friends spend their afternoons at a horse barn, horsing around.
"I think he's doing good," says one friend. "I think he's gonna walk, and I just have fun hanging out with him."
"I like coming over here, my buddies come over here," says Jospeh. " My mom likes to ride the horses, so she comes up here too alot."
In three weeks, Joseph will go back to school for the first time since his accident.
For him, it's another sign that his life is getting back to normal and another opportunity to do something some said he wouldn't be able to do.
"It feels good to prove them wrong. I like to prove people wrong," he says.
If you want to show your support for Joseph and his family, the Mobile Sharks semi-pro football team is hosting a fundraiser Saturday, July 19th. The Sharks are taking on the Southern Louisiana Hurricanes in Joseph's honor. Kick-off is at 7:30 at Satsuma High School, and all proceeds will go to the Toomey's.
The team is asking fans to wear white to support Joseph. For more information click here.
News Map
Email to a Friend 
Printer Friendly 
Recent Commented: News Reports
Ike Moving Slightly South Of…
UPS Driver Goes 1 Million Miles,…
Mayor Arrested After Council…
Lawn Mower Man Busted
Disability Home Hurting For…
Panhandle City Considers Speed…