Joseph Peter Bartzis was a 2014 graduate of Arizona State University with a degree in Business and Sustainability. “Solar Joe,” as he was known by his friends and peers, was a rising star in the sustainability field working as a Business Development Manager where he led the charge in establishing multi-million dollar solar farms across the country. Joseph passionately cared about the environment, his health, and the well-being of others. His smile and positive energy lit up every room he walked into. In November 2017, Joseph was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder called AL Amyloidosis. After a tough fight, Joseph passed away on February 27, 2018, at the age of 26.
A major challenge in AL amyloidosis is the current lack of early diagnosis, which is a key factor in disease progression and prognosis. Awareness by the medical community and the general public is essential to turn this around. Increasing the level of support is crucial for research in this underserved disease class, so developmental therapies can be implemented to improve the outlook for Amyloidosis patients in the future. Although there is currently no cure for the disease, it can be treated and managed with chemotherapy and/or bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. Our goal is to continue to raise money to progress research in the field.
The Bartzis family and the JPB Foundation's wish is that young people make it a priority to have annual physicals, as Joey’s story is proof that no one, no matter how strong, is invincible. While Joseph was taken far too soon, the Bartzis family and the Foundation hope to inspire others to be their own advocate for health, as well as live each day with the same passion and exuberance that Joseph possessed.
#LivelikeJoe #SolarJoe
