Get well wishes for JJ
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BY CAROLYN THOMPSON
cthompson@nwitimes.com
219.933.3229
| Thursday, February 28, 2008 | (6 comment(s))

HIGHLAND | Months of fundraising efforts for James Joshua Golub culminated Wednesday in checks totaling $18,028 during a celebration at Highland High School. (Watch the video.)

The 15-year-old known as "JJ" is a sophomore who has cancer.

Arriving directly from Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center in Chicago where JJ undergoes chemotherapy for osteosarcoma, the Golubs met with more than 100 elementary and high school students, administrators and civic members.

One by one, adult representatives and youth members came forth to deliver their team's efforts in varying amounts of money to an overwhelmed James Sr. and Susan Golub.

"We want to thank you for your prayers and they are working because he is cancer-free right now," said a teary-eyed Susan Golub.

The 42-year-old mom said the community's outpouring helped the family focus on taking care of JJ without worrying about bills as much.

"We never knew how much he was loved," she said wiping her face. "We knew he was loved by us, but you kids have been the driving force behind us. Thank you so much for that."

JJ's father agreed.

"I want to thank everybody for supporting my family during these times," said James Golub Sr., 43. "This is a strong community. I'm glad I live here."

The lineup of donors include Warren and Southridge elementary schools, orchestra and swimming teams, Theater Company, Key Club, Student Council and the Lake County clerk's office in Hammond.

JJ was presented with a Toshiba laptop along with a giant student-made "Get Well JJ" card.

"I just know he is an awesome kid to be around," said Joshua Tryon, a senior and close friend to JJ.

Said JJ softly, "It's nice to know everyone cares enough to do all this."

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Greg Kolodziej wrote on Feb 29, 2008 10:16 PM:

" Hey JJ! Hope that each day for you is better than the last. My whole family has you in our prayers, so now you HAVE to get better! Hope that I'll see you soon! "

Ellen wrote on Feb 28, 2008 8:28 PM:

" I created a CaringBridge site to keep you up to date on J.J. Golub. CaringBridge is a nonprofit organization that helps friends and families stay connected.

You can visit J.J. 's CaringBridge site at www.caringbridge.org/visit/jjgolub.

"

shelly wrote on Feb 28, 2008 12:57 PM:

" to the highland resident wanting to help out there is a fund for jj at centier bank...They should be able to help you...to jj and his family youre all wonderful people and show just what a family should be....committed to each other thru thick and thin.....we all want the same thing..For JJ to get well very soon... "

Highland Resident wrote on Feb 28, 2008 10:38 AM:

" I was out of town, can someone please give the information on how to contribute towards J.J.s medical costs?
Thank you. "

Bubba wrote on Feb 28, 2008 7:36 AM:

" After reading this story I realize how
fortunate my family and myselph are.

Best wishes JJ for you and your family.
"

A riends mom wrote on Feb 28, 2008 6:29 AM:

" Hey JJ!! It was so wonderful with all the help and support. Students and parents alike wish you a speedy recovery! "

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