On November 27, 2017, my 19-year-old son Joseph was involved in a devastating automobile accident.
Doctors told me he may not survive the next 24 hours.
Joseph suffered a catastrophic traumatic brain injury and was placed on life support.
Over the years, Joseph endured:
- Four brain surgeries
- Removal of damaged skull bone
- Prosthetic bone flap reconstruction
- Feeding tube
- ICU care
- Years of rehabilitation
Additional Injuries & Recovery
Despite the devastating injuries caused by the accident — including the loss of his right eye — Joseph continues to persevere with strength and resilience. He now wears a prosthetic right eye as part of his ongoing recovery.
Medical Recovery Journey
When Joseph came off life support:
- He could not walk.
- He could not talk.
- He could not feed himself.
Doctors told me some expectations were unrealistic.
Some suggested long-term facility care.
I refused.
I brought my son home.
For nearly three years, Joseph lived in a wheelchair.
Rehabilitation Journey
Before the accident, Joseph was an avid basketball player — the court was his second home. These moments capture him learning to walk again, and learning to play the game he loved all over again.
Today
- Joseph walks.
- He talks.
- He feeds himself.
- He continues to overcome incredible odds.
Joseph still faces cognitive and behavioral challenges, but he continues making progress.
We give all glory to God and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for every step of healing.
A Mother's Perspective — LaVonya Reeves
From building a future to fighting for my son's life
During Joseph's recovery, I was forced to pause many of the dreams and goals I had worked years to build.
My focus shifted overnight — from building a future to fighting for my son's life.
This became not only Joseph's survival story, but my journey as a mother, caregiver, and woman of faith.
In Loving Memory
My Father's Legacy Still Walks With Us
Six months into Joseph's recovery, while Joseph was receiving rehabilitation at TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston, my father was battling lung cancer.
He was a proud Vietnam veteran.
While caring for my son, I also had to say goodbye to my father and lay him to rest.
Even in grief, God carried our family.
