Justin Needs Our Help!
Justin was injured in a fall in August, 2007, sustaining a spinal cord injury that caused him to become a quadriplegic. He is a client at Journey Forward, an intensive exercise-based rehab facility in Canton, MA.
2017:
Dear Friends and Family,
It’s the time of year that I like to give you an update on Justin and ask that you consider a year-end tax-deductible contribution to assist with ongoing rehab expenses, which are not covered by medical insurance.
As you probably know, Justin has been attending a rehabilitation program called Journey Forward since they opened in January 2008. He has made tremendous progress as you can see from the photo. His intense desire, determination, and dedication were rewarded in 2015 when he received the “3D’s” Award for those attributes. Although he has not seen increased movement in his extremities, he continues to improve his core strength which assists in his positioning when in the bed or wheelchair. We follow developments at Invivo Therapeutics in Cambridge, the Miami Project, research at Rutgers, research on spinal cord regeneration in marine life at Woods Hole, and the University of California at San Diego. We continue to be hopeful about a stem cell transplant with matrix and scaffolding. There will probably not be one “magic bullet” but a number of modalities that will work concurrently.
We see a clinical trial for Justin in the near future and this is all due to Justin’s hard work at Journey Forward and his use of the standing frame and electrical stimulation bike at home. Because so many people have supported Justin emotionally and financially, he has moved forward. He is back at Berklee College of Music majoring (online) in music business. He is expected to graduate in May 2018. I live with him, and his courage continues to amaze me every day.
To assist with these expenses, a fundraising campaign has been established in honor of Justin Graceffa with Help Hope Live, a trusted nonprofit organization that has been providing community-based fundraising guidance to help patients and families in need for more than 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law and are held by Help Hope Live in the Northeast Catastrophic Injury Fund in honor of Justin Graceffa. Donations are allocated by Help Hope Live based on financial need for medical expenses. If you would like to make an end-of-year tax deductible contribution, please click the Give button.
Your support would be tremendously appreciated. My unending gratitude and best wishes to you.
Thank you,
Dolores (Dee) Russo
Updates (8)
January 13, 2024
Hi everyone, first, I’d like to thank everybody once again for all the donations people have sent me this past year. It makes such an impact and it’s hard for me to put into words how much it means that people are still donating after all these years. Haven’t posted any updates or pictures in a while so I figured I would post some pictures from my time at Empower SCI this past summer as well as my three most recent and favorite paintings today. Thank you again everybody who supported me.
January 9, 2023
Hi everyone, wanted to thank you all again for your donation this year. It’s hard to believe that it’s already been over 15 years but you are all still supporting and giving to me. It means so much, I cannot thank you enough. I wanted to include some pictures and a video from my time at Empower as well as some pictures of my artwork. Something that has become a really big part of my life.
If you’d like to see more of my art please just out my instagram @HellOnWheels5757
May 6, 2021
Hey everyone, just wanted to add some recent pictures of me at my rehab facility Journey Forward. This is where all the generous donations you’ve given me over the years go to. Your continued support I will go a long way to my progress.
December 9, 2019
Justin just got his new van. 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan. Thanks to all who made this possible.
August 7, 2018
Justin will be moving to his own apartment in Brookline Village in September 2018. It will be difficult to get everything set up, but hopefully open up new opportunities for him.
August 7, 2018
Justin graduated "Magna cum Laude from Berklee Collegelof Music on Saturday May 12, 2018. He led the 1049 graduates into the Agganis Arena at Boston University, where the Commencement was held.
April 23, 2018
It took me over 9 years but I finally graduated. Thanks to everyone who has support me along the way! Check out my graduation flyer under Albums below!
March 26, 2018
Justin has been invited to participate in a clinical trial at the Univ of Louisville in Kentucky. We traveled down there in March 2015 and although he met all the criteria, they were not recruiting at that time. We will be going down there again during the last week in June. If he meets all the criteria, he will be enrolled in the Epidural Stimulation study with about 39 other people. He will have to live there for 18-24 months.
Photo Galleries (6)
Loading Images
Guestbook
December 19, 2025
Hi Justin. You are making an impact on people's lives with your work on the Massachusetts PCA Council committees. Keep at it. I am glad that your health is good and those problems are in the past. I wish you the best of health and good luck in 2026, and of course, I wish you and your family a really nice Christmas.
Robert Giarratana
robert giarratana
December 16, 2025
Keep up the positive attitude; you are an inspiration!
Claire Moir
December 3, 2025
Justin - we are so proud of you for serving on the Massachusetts PCA Council. We also love your paintings. Keep up the good work!
Cara DeLucia
December 2, 2025
You’re an inspiration, Justin! All the best, always, to you and your mom.
— Kathy & Rich Newman
Kathy Newman
December 2, 2025
Keep up the good work Justin!
Lara Romanowski
November 30, 2025
Proud of you Justin!
Julie Crawford
November 29, 2025
Thank you for all you do.
Anne Ferrarigreenberg
March 4, 2025
Justin, what I've heard from your mom about your paintings, your Zoom teaching and your progress is amazing. I'm so glad to hear from her about how you have been an amazing model for others in your position. I'm sure you will continue down this path of progress. Well done!
Maria DeSantis
January 7, 2025
Thinking of you and hoping your strength continues to grow in your journey. Mary Parcher.
Mary Parcher
December 28, 2024
Here's to keeping up the good work in 2025!
Susan Gorman
December 19, 2024
Congratulations on your accomplishments this year. Wishing you good health in the new year. Stay strong - you are an inspiration.
SUSAN INGARD
December 16, 2024
Keep up your positive attitude!
Debra Winske
December 16, 2024
I’m sorry for all the challenges you faced this year on top of all your daily challenges….but also happy to hear that so much positive(!) has happened as well. I pray for you and your mom…sending cheers to both of you this holiday season and every day!
Carrie Deisenroth
December 6, 2024
Hey Justin,
So impressed by all the progress you’ve made this year, despite the setbacks you’ve faced. You are strong beyond belief. Thanks for the opportunity to help out. Say hi to your mom for us :)
— Kathy & Rich Newman
Kathy & Rich Newman
December 6, 2024
SAN DIMAS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL RULES!!
Terry Regan
December 5, 2024
Justin, you are an inspiration. Keep up the determination and hard work.
Claire Moir
December 3, 2024
Love your spirit Justin! Happy Holidays to you!
Mary Foley
December 3, 2024
You are amazing, Justin! You should be very proud of your dedication & accomplishments!
Elizabeth Foster
December 3, 2024
You’re an amazing young man & a Beacon of hope to many.
Diane Ryan
December 3, 2024
Keep up the good work and I hope to see more artwork posted to your IG!
Lara Romanowski
December 2, 2024
Keep up the great work Justin
Frank Borges
December 2, 2024
Justin, I admire you so much, and all of the good you do for others. Wishing you a wonderful 2025.
Marilyn Lamkin
December 2, 2024
Keep up the great work and take care
patricia mccauley
November 30, 2024
Justin, Keep up your hard work and positive attitude! So proud of you.
Karen Moore
November 30, 2024
Justin- as always, we are inspired by your amazing attitude and wish you the best!
Laurie and Matthew Nee
November 30, 2024
We are amazed at what you've accomplished Justin. Wishing you all the best!
Jeanne DiNardo
January 28, 2024
Justin,
You had quite a year in 2023 and I'm sure 2025 will be even more eventful!! I enjoyed your November newsletter with updates. Empower SCI seems like a great organization. I am impressed with your work on MA PCA Council. Reaching out to refugee programs to discuss benefits of PCA work seems like a win-win situation; connecting folks with meaningful employment and filling a huge demand.
Glad you continue to pursue your passion of music and have developed another creative talent...painting.
Best wishes for a happy, healthy 2024.
Ellen Cobau
December 30, 2023
Wishing you all the best on your endeavors, Justin!
Beth Sanford
Mary Beth Sanford
December 21, 2023
Keep up the great work, Justin!
Best wishes,
The Larsen Family
Deborah Larsen
December 15, 2023
Justin,
What you have accomplished is nothing short of amazing. You are an inspiration to everyone who knows you. Someday I hope, I will have the opportunity to meet you.
Best wishes,
Al Pellecchia
Albert V Pellecchia Jr
December 14, 2023
Keep up the good work, Justin.
robert giarratana
December 6, 2023
Jason,
You are so impressive and have come a long way in spite of your disability. I wish you much success moving forward.
Maria DeSantis
December 5, 2023
Continued best wishes to you Justin! So impressed by all of your work!
Mary Foley
November 29, 2023
So proud of you!
Julie Crawford
November 29, 2023
Justin, I was so pleased to read that it has been a very fulfilling year for you. I love your art, particular the one entitled "My Masterpiece", but I've admired all pieces posted on Facebook also. Keep up the good work!
Best Wishes,
Marilyn Lamkin
Marilyn Lamkin
November 29, 2023
Congratulations on all you have accomplished this year! Keep up your positive attitude!
David Winske
November 29, 2023
We are very proud of all of your accomplishments!
Cara DeLucia
November 29, 2023
Justin- great to see you trying out kayaking! We'll have to chat next time I see you, I've gotten into it this past year too and love it. Hope you can get out on the water again this summer!
Lara Romanowski
November 29, 2023
Wonderful to hear of your progress! Keep up the positive attitude!
Claire Moir
November 28, 2023
Justin,
It was wonderful to receive your update and find out you're doing so well. Wishing you a productive, positive, and happy year ahead. Say hi to your mom for us :)
-- Kathy & Rich Newman
Kathy Newman
November 28, 2023
Proud od you Justin!
Sheryl Wharff
November 28, 2023
So proud of your achievements Justin!!
Jeanne DiNardo
September 30, 2023
❤️ SHS 68’ers Support each other ❤️ Thinking of Justin & sending hope & Love ❤️
Diane Ryan
August 23, 2023
You are an inspiration.
Susan Pritchard
December 29, 2022
Justin- Keep up the positive attitude and spirit! I enjoy seeing and hearing about all of your new paintings and artwork through Christina. Best wishes for another concert-filled year in 2023!
Lara Romanowski
December 29, 2022
To another year of progress and recovery!
Susan Gorman
December 27, 2022
Wishing you all the best, Justin, in your work!
Mary Beth Sanford
December 14, 2022
Happy holidays Justin and all the best in 2023.
With love from your neighbors!
sheryl wharff
December 12, 2022
Hi Justin!
Thanks for your recent update. We so admire and respect your determination and perseverance, and we hope the year ahead is filled with far more ups than downs. Hugs to you and your mom <3
-- Kathy & Rich Newman
Kathy Newman
December 10, 2022
Justin,
I'm your mom's friend from college. It's been many years since we met, but your letters tell an amazing story about how you have moved forward in your journey - yes - "Journey Forward".
May your progress continue.
Maria DeSantis
Maria DeSantis
December 5, 2022
Hi Justin.
You\'re looking good! Keep up the hard work.
Wishing you all the best.
Robert F Giarratana
December 5, 2022
With admiration and constancy,
love Jan and Joe Roller
Jan Roller
December 5, 2022
Glad you are making good progress. You are an inspiration.
Claire & Don Moir
December 4, 2022
Your hard work and good spirit is impressive Justin.
Karen Moore
November 29, 2022
Keep up your positive attitude!
Debbie Winske
November 29, 2022
Helping you and your mom continue to improve upon all the challenges you face. God bless
Carrie Deisenroth
November 28, 2022
So glad to hear of your progress, Justin. You have certainly inherited your Mom's amazing spirit and strength. Keep moving forward!
Donna Wade
November 24, 2022
Justin, I was pleased to read about the productive year you've had. Your advocacy work sounds very rewarding. I've been enjoying your beautful paintings on facebook. I hope that there will be lots more to come.
I wish you health and happiness in the coming year.
Marilyn Lamkin
March 6, 2022
Wishing you a happy and healthy year! Stay strong!
Jackie Hamwey
February 5, 2022
Hey Justin,
Glad you are doing SCI advocacy. You are a role model for Empowering those with SCI.
Keep on keeping on!!
Ellen Cobau, PT, RN
Ellen Cobau
December 30, 2021
Keep up the hard work and the beautiful smile on your face.
Love
The Lemkes
Bill & Steph
Bill and Stephanie Lemke
December 27, 2021
Here's to hard work and positive spirit. Never gift up.
Susan Gorman
December 27, 2021
It's so inspiring to see all of your progress--keep it up! Merry Christmas and cheers to you in the new year!
Lara Romanowski
December 18, 2021
Hi Justin,
Thank you for sharing your photos. I am happy and impressed with your hard work and progress. Keep at it! Love you and your Mom and wishing you both a Merry Christmas.
God Bless.
Robert Giarratana
December 10, 2021
Justin, We are so proud of all the progress you have made. Love, The Larsen Family
Deborah Larsen
December 8, 2021
Best wishes for a promising year ahead!
Debra Winske
December 7, 2021
Hi Justin! Thanks for keeping us posted on your progress. We\'re so impressed with your determination and drive, and especially with your ability to overcome difficult and unexpected obstacles along the way. You truly are an inspiration! Please give your mom our best wishes and let her know we have moved -- our new address is 76 Paulson Road, Waban MA 02468. All the best to you always!!
Kathy & Rich Newman
December 7, 2021
Keep up the good work, Justin. I know you get a lot of your strength from your Mom, an amazing woman I met nearly 60 years ago. You both are inspirational with your courage and vision. God bless!
Donna Wade
December 7, 2021
So proud of the work Justin is doing!
Julie Crawford
December 2, 2021
Hi Justin,
I really liked your letter. It sounded like you are on the move, rolling onward and upward. Congratulations.
And - what a tough year. I hope things improve for you - it sure sounds like you are on a great path.
Your neighbor,
Jeanette
Jeanette Millard
December 1, 2021
Alwsys thinking of Justin (you fight the fight), dee (a mom who I can admire and hope to be like) and the rest of your family. Life is hope…keep living each day and keep looking towards the goals. Wishing you all a happy holiday season ❤️❤️….the Deisenroths.
Carrie Deisenroth
November 23, 2021
Justin,
Thank you for your letter. You have had a challenging year. We are so impressed and inspired by your dedication, drive and continued. success. Proud to be part of your team.
Best wishes for the year ahead.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Jan and Joe Roller
Jan and Joe Roller
November 21, 2021
Justin, wishing you a healthy and happy 2022. You are such an inspiration. It was lovely to read about how involved you have gotten with various organizations. Keep on giving of yourself, and the love will come right back to you.
Marilyn Lamkin
November 19, 2021
Keep up the great work Justin. Congratulations on becoming a member of the Mass PCA Workforce Council
Frank Borges
November 19, 2021
Stay Strong Justin!!!
Terry Regan
January 25, 2021
Dave and I wish you a happy, healthy year filled with new hopes and prospects!
Debbie Winske
January 25, 2021
Hey Justin,
Keep on keeping on!!! Last year was a challenging year for everyone but 2021 will much better. Give my love to your Mom (Nurse Dee).
Ellen Cobau
Ellen Cobau
December 22, 2020
Sending love and support; one step at a time.
Susan Gorman
December 2, 2020
Keep fighting, Justin! I'm sending hope, faith, and healing vibes your way. I know your Mom's spirit flows in your veins, so you're on your way.
Donna Wade
December 1, 2020
Thinking of you Justin and hoping the stem cell research will give you full recovery.
Fondly,
The Larsen Family
Deborah Larsen
December 1, 2020
Hi Justin,
Keep up the great work, and know that the old neighborhood is still with you, wishing you all the best.
Janine & Rob Wolkon
Janine & Rob Wolkon
November 24, 2020
Hi Justin,
Keep your spirits up and keep up the good work.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a good year ahead.
Rober Giarratana
robert giarratana
November 23, 2020
Justin wishing you a happy holiday this year and my loving support!
Jackie Hamwey
November 23, 2020
Justin,
Thinking of you always and wishing for only good things and good luck to come your way from here on out. <3
Fondly,
Kathy & Rich Newman
Kathy Newman
November 22, 2020
Love your positive attitude! Best of luck for the coming year!
Claire Moir
November 19, 2020
Wishing you all the best Justin.
Marilyn Lamkin
November 12, 2020
Justin God Bless you
Lloyd Hammer
January 19, 2020
Hey Justin,
Happy New Year!! Sounds like last year was a challenging year for you but you persevered and are stronger for it!!! Hope you're getting out and about in your new wheels!!
Give my love to your Mom (Nurse Dee)
Ellen
Ellen Cobau
December 31, 2019
Stay Strong, Justin and feel the Love.
Susan Pritchard
December 19, 2019
Keep journeying forward!
Susan Gorman
December 12, 2019
Justin,
SO PROUD OF YOU !
JAMES TAYLOR
December 11, 2019
You are an incredible young man. Wishing you well always.
Marilyn Lamkin
December 9, 2019
You are special! Keep up the good work!
Donald & Claire Moir
December 9, 2019
Best Wishes in 2020 Justin!
Mary Foley
December 9, 2019
God Bless Merry Christmas
Chris & Carol Hammer
December 9, 2019
Sending you love and support...You are an amazing young man. Wishing you the best!
Fondly, Jeanne DiNardo
Jeanne DiNardo
December 8, 2019
Keep up the good work, Justin. I've known your Mom since 7th grade, so I feel like I know you, too. You certainly inherited her persistence! Sending you positive energy, strength, and hope!
Donna Wade
December 6, 2019
Justin,
We are so impressed by your continued bravery and persistence. Wishing you all good things in 2020 and beyond. Stay strong. <3
-- Kathy and Rich
Kathy Newman
December 6, 2019
Justin, we are incredibly proud of you! You are a role model and inspiration!
Nancy Britts
December 3, 2019
Justin, I know 2020 will be a good year to you. Keep fighting and working hard. Love to your mother! You are an amazingly brave man.
Karen Moore (Brian's mother) :-)
Karen K Moore
April 13, 2019
I hope you guys have a fun time at the casino tonight!
Christina Reidy
December 31, 2018
Keep up the good fight Justin!
Terry Regan
December 31, 2018
Here's toward progress and happiness in 2019!
Susan Gorman
December 31, 2018
Congratulations, Justin, on your terrific accomplishments at Berklee.
Norma & Bob Frye
Robert Frye
December 22, 2018
We wish good health to you and your Mom for this coming year!
Claire Moir
December 21, 2018
Congratulations Justin!! Very Proud of you!
Terri Carlson
December 19, 2018
Justin,
We are sending our best wishes to you and your mom, and hopes for a healing and happy New Year!
Laurie and Matt
Laurie and Matt Nee
December 18, 2018
Graduating Magna Cum Laude from Berklee is no easy feat!! Most impressive!! Congrats!!
Glad to hear that you've got your own place in the city. You are an inspiration. Keep on keeping on. Merry Christmas and Happy 2019. Tell Mom I was asking for her and I'll be in touch.
Ellen Cobau
December 15, 2018
Justin - Your strength and determination are inspirational. We wish you the best with your move and the changes ahead. The Pathak Family
Gretchen Pathak
December 11, 2018
Justin, I am in awe of all that you have accomplished. May your journey forward bring you happiness and satisfaction.
Marilyn Lamkin
August 16, 2018
Our sincere Congratulations and Best Wishes to Justin on his campaign.
Frank & Ursula Lyons
Ursula Lyons
August 6, 2018
Justin is an amazing example of bravery and perseverance.
I have know him since he was a little guy and I am so proud of him.
Karen K Moore
August 6, 2018
Dear Justin,
It is Mrs. Moore (Brian\'s mother from Sudbury days).
Sending a big congratulations to you on your graduation.
You are amazing and an inspiration to us all. (You have an awesome mother. too! ♥️ ) Never give up, Karen Moore
Karen K Moore
March 9, 2018
Hello Justin,
Sorry I can't make it to the April Mohegan Sun Gala. Glad to hear that the Berklee degree is within reach!! Glad to hear that you're still working it. Core strength is where it's at!!
Hope to catch up with your Mom one of these days!!!
Ellen Cobau
Ellen Cobau
December 10, 2017
Everyone is so proud of all your hard work. You are AMAZING.
MERRY CHRISTMAS.
Sharon Forde
December 8, 2017
Hi Justin!
You are in the home stretch of your degree program—and from everyone at Berklee Online, congratulations for all your hard work and accomplishments. We're looking forward to seeing you at commencement in May!
All the best,
Carin
Carin Nuernberg
November 16, 2017
Justin, you have grown into an incredible young man. I truly hope that you achieve all of your goals.
Marilyn Lamkin
November 16, 2017
hi Justin!
You and your Mom are such inspirations of courage, strength, and love! Sending you both prayers and thanks for being strong!
Beth Drewniak (worked with your Mom years ago)
November 16, 2017
Justin, your strength and determination are inspiring! Sending love and hope to you and your mom. <3
Kathy and Rich Newman
October 18, 2016
Hey Justin, Keep on keeping on!!! Sorry I cannot attend next months dinner dance. Hope to get together with your Mom and hear all about it.
Ellen Cobau
December 17, 2015
You are an impressive man! Happy 2016 to you.
Karen Moore (Brian's mom)
December 9, 2015
Nice going, keep up the good work
Chris & Carol Hammer
