My name is Joey Harris and I am a Vietnam veteran who proudly served in the U.S. Navy for four years as a boatswain mate. During my time in service, I stood duty watch and worked on deck, experiencing the vast beauty of the world. I was honored to receive a medal for my service during the Vietnam War — a time that shaped my discipline, resilience, and love for service.
After the military, I continued my commitment to public service through a fulfilling career as a Civil Engineer for the Department of Transportation. I started by maintaining the roads and bridges of our state and later learned to help design and build the infrastructure that safely connects our communities.
I am a single father of four children and the proud grandfather of eight. My family lives in South Carolina, and though I’ve endured the loss of a daughter, I find comfort in the accomplishments of my children. One daughter served as a police officer until retirement after 27 years, and my son is now a professor at Trident College in North Charleston.
In 2018, I was diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes, which led to a steady decline in my kidney function. In May 2024, I began dialysis — a life-saving treatment that has significantly impacted my energy levels and quality of life. Due to fatigue, I now need to rest frequently when doing physical tasks.
Despite my health challenges, I remain deeply rooted in my faith as a Jehovah’s Witness. I’ve always found joy in ministry work, visiting homes to offer encouragement and spiritual comfort. However, my current health limits my ability to continue this work. My hope is that with a successful kidney transplant, I can regain the strength to walk longer distances and return to the ministry I love so dearly.
I approach each day with hope and gratitude. I’m looking forward to renewed health and the ability to continue serving others — both in my family and my faith.
For medically cleared donors, giving the gift of life through living kidney donation has been proven to be very safe. DOVE will assist all prospective donors throughout the process and make sure they do not incur any out-of-pocket expenses related to the evaluation or surgery. A healthy person can live a normal life with one kidney and save Joey’s life with the other!
Your support, whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, can make a profound impact on his life and the life of his family!
Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611