The Joey Guest Memorial Foundation - , The Change Starts -With You...

This Foundation is in memory of the late Joey W. Guest. Joey was born June 29, 1969 in Cleveland, TN and moved to Martin when he was 3. He was always the life of the party and loved his family and friends. He loved sports more than anything, especially The Big Orange Football or watching his Capitals on the ice and of course you can't forget about over the fence homeruns at Dodger Stadium. Joey grew up playing baseball on rec leagues but most of all, his passion was playing football for Martin Jr High and continued playing under Friday night lights till the end of his Westview High School years till he graduated in 1987. He went on to continue his studies at the University of TN at Martin but didn't finish..at first. Later he went back, graduating from UTM in 1999 with a degree in Communications . He loved his motorcycle and if he wasn't on it, then you could bet there was either a rod & reel or a camera in his hand. He was a sports writer for the Weakley County Press for a number of years till he had an opportunity to work for a marketing company for Nascar. After 5 years with that he decided it was time to come home to be able to spend more time with his son. After all, he was playing football now too and dad had to be there to watch. He loved life and made the best of it, the best way he knew how. He was a member of the Sons Of The American Legion and was always there to help when needed for anything. On February 20, 2011, tragedy struck and Joey was out on his bike not knowing that would be his last ride. Joey was an amazing father, brother, son, and husband and couldn't ask for a better friend. We all miss him everyday and this memorial run helps keep his memory alive for all of us friends and family alike. I know he wouldn't have it any other way and he would be so proud of what we have accomplished so far.

John Ray Elinor is 6 months old and has Spina Bifida. There are difference types but John has Myelomeningocele, the most serious form. It means a child is born with their spinal cord exposed, causing severe nerve damage and often paralysis. But with proper medical care, physical therapy, and community support, these children grow up to live active, independent, and joyful lives. He also has Hydrocephalus, excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within cavities of his brain/ventricles. This excess fluid causes ventricles to widen, which puts harmful press on the tissues of the brain. Currently, there isn’t a cure for hydrocephalus, but it can be treated. John had a shunt placed on May 1st, this is be a life long device to reduce the fluid buildup. He is now in Occupation Therapy and will start Physical Therapy soon. John is the son of Justin & Kelsey Elinor, Grandson of Nancy Jarred Glover & Greg Glover and Penny & James Shawver.
Lifelong : a journey requiring extensive pediatric care, neurosurgery, urological care, and physical or occupational therapy.

In 2011 we lost an amazing Friend. It didn't take long to decide we needed to keep his memory alive by doing what he loved to do, helping others. In no time, family and friends got together to form an annual poker run to benefit families for whatever they may need. Whether it's to help with medical expenses or setting up a trust fund for a child who lost a parent, or anything in between. In the last 15 years we have raised just over $181,000 and we're not done yet. We hope to continue this event for many years to come. Joey left behind a legacy and we plan to keep his memory alive by continuing to help families who could use our help each and every year. 15 years ago most of us barely knew each other's name. Now we are all FAMILY!!