Jordan's Story

Jordan Scott Paganelli died on Monday, November 9, 2009, after battling a rare form of cancer for 23-months. He died peacefully at home, 5 days prior to his 18th birthday.

Jordan was the very definition of grace, courage, and strength under pressure. He was the purest, most magnificent embodiment of selflessness and love that anyone had ever witnessed. His calm and humble strength radiated positive energy and love on everyone around him.

Jordan’s ability to accept his fate, yet continue to un-remorsefully live his life with passion, hope, and un-restrained joy was utterly astounding. And despite missing out on many of the youthful “rights-of-passage” that we all take for granted, he was able to teach all of us about living—and loving—with a clarity beyond our comprehension.

During his struggle, he recognized that he was put here for a different purpose—a higher purpose—which was to enrich our lives, focus our faith, and re-ignited our spirit….while inspiring us to immerse ourselves in the beauty and privilege that IS life. Merely hearing of his story touched people in profound ways… and was the means by which he was able to carry-out his purpose for being here.

In the end, despite the knowledge and unavoidable reality that he was dying, Jordan chose to live his final days by celebrating at home with his family and friends, soothing OUR fears, and giving US personal items to remember him. He will always be cherished; and his memory will live on as we honor the privilege of having him in our lives.

One of ways we have chosen to keep his memory alive is by hosting an annual event within the community that captures the essence of Jordan’s passions: Running, Music, and Friendship. Jordan’s friends nicknamed him “JRock” because of his incomprehensible courage, strength, and resiliency. Thus, the name for our event has aptly become the “JRock-n-Run”. We have chosen July 24th to kick-off our inaugural “JRock-n-Run” at the Sotterley Plantation in Hollywood, Maryland.

Our vision is to create a festive annual event that serves to honor Jordan’s memory while raising awareness for Sarcoma/Cancer and providing an opportunity for people of ALL ages to challenge themselves morally, mentally, and physically. Our event features a 5k Trail Run and a 1.5k Fun Walk that are designed to encourage everyone to participate in a spirited physical activity while attempting to achieve PERSONAL goals that they have set for themselves. Following the races, we will continue to enjoy the evening with what we are calling “Jordan-Palooza” – a festive LIFE CELEBRATION featuring live music, good food, and fun activities for the entire family. Our idea is simple: to remember Jordan’s passion for running while bringing the community together in a way that is fun and uplifting.

You can expect the “JRock-n-Run” to be a high-energy combination of a Run/Walk, a community Festival, and a Live Concert……all rolled into one. As mentioned, the focus of our event is Personal Challenge and Personal Achievement. When people register, we encourage them to set a "Run-Time Goal" for themselves……something THEY will challenge themselves to achieve. During our post-race ceremony, we will recognize those individuals who reach (or beat) their run-time goals. THEY will be the true WINNERS of the “JRock-n-Run” and will be given a special souvenir to recognize their victory. Then, after the races…..we will enjoy great food, drinks, and live music while watching the kids chase fire-flies and play games in the warm summer breeze off the Patuxent River.

Everyone will be invited to bring their chairs, blankets, Frisbees, picnic baskets, and coolers so as to enjoy an evening of fellowship and remembrance with the community while listening to great music.

The dream IS alive—and the Journey continues……

Fly Safe – Live Life – Make a Difference

ONE DAY AT A TIME !!

Pepper Ridge Park Memorial - Click picture to enlarge

“We Come to Love

Not By Finding a Perfect Person,

But By Learning to See

An Imperfect Person Perfectly.”

Jordan “JRock” Paganelli

 

Visit Jordan's CaringBridge Page
Watch Jordan's You-Tube Video
Watch - A Video Tribute to Jordan