VERMILION — A Vermilion mechanic known for helping others is now receiving that same support back from the community.
Joe Pongallo, who is currently recovering from throat cancer treatment, is beginning to regain strength following a difficult stretch of chemotherapy and radiation.
“He’s getting stronger day by day,” said his daughter, Tiffany Brady. “He’s finally got the energy to run errands and get himself to appointments again. The chemo and radiation were really hard on him.”
Doctors say it may still take time before Pongallo feels fully like himself again, but his family says he continues to push forward each day.
A reputation built on helping others
For many in Vermilion, Pongallo is more than just a mechanic.
“My dad is the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it,” Brady said. “Growing up, I watched him help so many people, like fixing my friends’ cars when we were teenagers just so they wouldn’t be driving something unsafe.”
She described him as someone who steps in when people feel out of options.
“He’s laid back and very chill, but has a heart like no other,” she said. “Seeing his community say the same things about him just shows the world needs more people like Joe Pongallo.”
Fundraiser set for April 11
A pancake breakfast fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, April 11 from 9 a.m. to noon at Lakeview Baptist Church, 591 Ferndale Ave. in Vermilion.
Tickets are $25 and include breakfast and a free car wash at Liberty Auto Wash.
The breakfast will feature pancakes, eggs, fruit, sausage, coffee, juice, and tea. Raffle baskets donated by local businesses will also be available.
Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
Support from near and far
Brady said the response has been overwhelming, with support coming not only from Vermilion residents but also from members of the military community she is part of.
“I knew Vermilion was a tight-knit community, but the support has been overwhelming in the best way,” she said. “We are so thankful and grateful for everyone.”
A GoFundMe has also been established to help with medical expenses. Those wishing to contribute can visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-joseph-pongallos-cancer-fight.
“If you could just keep our family in your thoughts, that would be appreciated,” Brady said. “We are hoping all the scans come back good in the upcoming weeks.”