By Grace Garcia
PINOY Staffer
It was this month last year that James Javier was thriving in his lead role as Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. His stage presence and booming voice were awe-inspiring. To top that off, his book of fiction was published and he was a Creative Team Member at Apple. He was on top of his game. Little did he know that he would be hit by a car while jogging three months later which resulted in his suffering from a traumatic brain injury.
James was in an unconscious-comatose-state but fought it and is now in a minimally conscious state. During his performance as Joseph at Waubonsie Community College, NBC – 5’s Chicago Weather Anchor Andy Avalos played a minor acting role and got to know James. Avalos wrote a special testimonial on James’ Web site explaining what kind of impact he made on the community. Avalos wrote, “I saw for myself, firsthand, how much he would light up a room, how people were drawn to him, how they appreciated his talent and gifts…”
James’ former blog, which was about his family and getting healthy and staying motivated was turned into a Web site www.milesforjames.com to raise funds for James’ growing medical expenses. Now it is time for us to reach out to him. Donations of any amount are welcomed through Paypal. The first 100 people who donate $50 or more will receive the new free Infunitum Board Game.
Performing arts was a side role he played, but his main career was with Apple as a Creative Team member. In his Web site www.jamesjavier.com, he has posted his past “creative” activities such as performing with his former singing group Picture Perfect. He played roles in theater productions such as in Oklahoma, Guys and Dolls, Evita, Taming of the Shrew, Grease and his favorite role- A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
James is the son of Pong and Merlyn Javier of Palos Hills. He received his BA in Communications from Loyola University Chicago in 1995. Before the accident, he was residing in Oak Forest, IL.
To help raise more funds for James, his family has put together The Miles for James Benefit Fundraiser, a 5K marathon which will be hosted by none other than Andy Avalos on Sunday, August 15. The ticket prices for adults is $30 and $20 for children ages 6-20 which will include a full buffet, wine, pop, beer, water and complementary valet at Merrionette Park, IL from 2-7 p.m. Alternatively, check donations are also welcome. Simply make your check out to Miles for James and mail it to: MB Financial, 9101 W. 159th, Orland Hills, IL 60487.
He is currently staying at RML Specialty Hospital, a rehabilitation nursing home in Hinsdale. It is predicted that his recovery from this type of accident could take at least a couple of years.•