TOP CHARACTER STRENGTHS

LOVE - LOVE OF LEARNING - GRATITUDE

Joel was raised by two proud Puerto Ricans, Olga and Wilfredo. They raised him with love and kindness. He had his two brothers, Wilfredo Jr. and Randy. He joined the Navy because his parents could not afford college. Joining the Navy, Joel realized he loved learning and traveling.

Character Strength Story:

LOVE - Joel's mother, Olga, was battling cancer. She called a family meeting and let everyone know she was terminal. Joel requested to work in New York to care for her. His dream was to train to be an officer, but he knew he did not have much time left with his mother. He would go to work and care for her all evening.

LOVE OF LEARNING - Joel loved to learn. He was a medic while serving. He trained with the Marines. Even though it was difficult, he worked hard to get through training.

GRATITUDE - Joel always took pride in his work ethic. He treated patients like family. Joel loved his job. He would treat them with love and kindness. One year his coworkers threw him a surprise party. He was beyond happy. He then surprised them with pizza and soda.

-Submitted by Brenda Lee, Surviving Wife