Joseph Wilcox, a young man from Waco, Texas, has faced immense challenges throughout his life, but his unwavering determination to fulfill a shared dream with his late father has been a driving force in his journey. Despite being diagnosed with stage 4 Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare bone and tissue cancer, at the age of 16, Wilcox has refused to let his illness define him, and his story is a testament to the power of resilience and perseverance.

A Dream Deferred, but Never Forgotten

A Shared Passion for Automotive Restoration

Joseph Wilcox and his father shared a deep passion for cars, particularly the iconic '67 Chevy Impala featured in the popular TV show "Supernatural." They had long dreamed of restoring one of these classic vehicles together, a plan that was tragically cut short when Wilcox's father passed away in a boating accident when Wilcox was just 12 years old. Undeterred, Wilcox vowed to honor his father's memory and fulfill their shared dream, even as he faced his own health challenges.

Battling Cancer with Unwavering Determination

Wilcox's journey has been marked by a series of physical and emotional setbacks. His mother, Becca Kinerd, recounts the toll that his stage 4 Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma has taken on him, including years of chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries that have caused significant nerve damage. Despite these obstacles, Wilcox has remained steadfast in his pursuit of the car restoration project, a testament to his resilience and the strength of his bond with his late father.

Setbacks and Perseverance

In 2020, Wilcox was able to find and purchase a '68 Chevy Impala, a car that was close to the one he and his father had dreamed of restoring. He enlisted the help of a local dealership to begin the restoration process, but three years later, the project remained unfinished. Heartbroken, Wilcox made the difficult decision to sell the car, a decision that only fueled his determination to see his dream through.

A Community Rallies to Support a Dream

When news of Wilcox's story reached the local community, it touched the hearts of many. Gram Short, the founder of Bulldog Auto Detailing in Waco, decided to step in and help Wilcox and his family. Short has worked with various car groups and businesses in the area to organize a car meet at the end of the month, with all proceeds going directly to Wilcox and his family. This outpouring of support has given Wilcox and his loved ones renewed hope, and they are eager to see the project finally come to fruition.

A Bittersweet Journey, but a Lasting Legacy

Wilcox's journey has been marked by both triumph and tragedy, but his unwavering spirit and determination have inspired those around him. As he continues to battle his illness, the restoration of the '67 Chevy Impala has become a symbol of his resilience and a testament to the enduring bond he shared with his father. With the support of his community, Wilcox is poised to fulfill a dream that has sustained him through the darkest of times, leaving a lasting legacy that will inspire others to never give up on their own aspirations.