Joseph Ahmed was born a stand out individual, someone who loved life more than the meaning of it. He exuded kindness, love and tremendous confidence with a degree of maturity that was uncommon for a kid his age. The ambitious teenager was an active member of the community, participating in several Matawan athletic programs including football, wrestling and track. However, his true life passion was science. Joseph had dreams of becoming a doctor, a decision he made at the tender young age of seven. His goal was to find a cure for auto immune diseases so no one would ever have to struggle with any form of this type of disease. There wasn’t any doubt that this young man would reach his grand aspirations. Unfortunately, God had a different plan.
On December 17, 2013, the lives of the Ahmed family changed forever when Joseph, 16, was diagnosed with Stage IV Ewing’s Sarcoma — a rare and aggressive form of bone and tissue cancer that targets mostly children and adolescents.
At the start of his battle, Joseph responded well to his treatments despite the severe pain and significant weight loss associated with the disease. Despite the challenges he faced, his spirits were high. The growths that were attacking multiple parts of his body began to shrink rapidly, the
Joseph Ahmed's Story
unbearable pain was subsiding, and he started to regain weight. The hope for remission was promising. Sadly, this hope was only temporary. In a short amount of time, the excruciating pain returned as the disease spread. This time, with tumors growing dangerously close to the Central Nervous System.
On September 1, 2014, after a courageous eight-month battle, Joseph Ahmed, 16, lost his valiant fight against Ewing’s Sarcoma. The sudden and untimely loss of this brave young warrior left his family, friends and community heart broken, and on a mission.
Through their tragic loss and grief, Joseph’s loved ones established the Joseph Ahmed Foundation.
Joseph Loved Sports
An Entire Community Behind Joe's Cure
Fighting Hard