Starfish Project is extremely proud that Don Post served on its Board of Directors from 2015 – 2020.
Starfish Project would like to extend their sincerest condolences to the family of a true Angel on Earth and outstanding board member, Don Post. Like so many, this loss has really hit us hard. Don was an inspiration to so many and he had the biggest heart, especially for the babies. Starfish Project will be launching a program that is all about the health and well being of our babies in honor of Don’s Legacy. If he has ever compelled you to get involved, be sure to check back for updates on the program. We will always remember and love you!
The best part of any Journey is the People You meet along the way. ~Don Post
Obituary
Link to Don’s Memorial Service 6/17/20
Don has been the recipient of many awards over the years, including his most recent in early February. Don was genuinely honored to learn he was selected as the “Mike Murphy Irish Person of the Year” by the KC St. Patrick’s Day Parade committee. He was determined to ride his VIP float no matter what the weather. Sadly the parade was cancelled due to Covid19 pandemic. Michelle Kilker, parade coordinator, confirmed Don will again be recognized in the 2021 KC St. Patrick’s Day Parade and his family and friends will be able to represent and honor Don as the Mike Murphy Honorary Irish Person of the Year! Don will be with us in spirit. Sláinte ~Penny Sharp
2013 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award Recipient
Don Post was born in Kansas and now resides in Missouri. He has spent his life helping others. He married twice and fathered four boys of his own and four stepsons. In addition to his family, he also loved to ride motorcycles, dance, sing and play his guitar at church.
Post really got started with his most active volunteering in 1976 when he joined the Independent Order of Foresters, a national organization focused on volunteering for charitable causes. He volunteered with Missouri Special Olympics and for the MDA/Jerry Lewis Telethon. He was saddened to meet so many children diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy, a neuromuscular disease that robs children of their ability to walk and often ends in death by the age of 20. Sadly, in 1980 Post was diagnosed with ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive degenerative condition made famous by baseball player Lou Gehrig. Doctors told Post his life expectancy was only 3 to 5 years. He was 37.
While many people might retreat from “living” or spend their final days fulfilling their own dreams, Post challenged the diagnosis and the disease by volunteering even more. Volunteering was not just a passion and vocation…it gave him the strength to get out of bed each morning and the real feeling of worth. Even though his physical abilities began to diminish, Post believes his disability has allowed him to look for the good in everyone he meets. From his bedroom office he connects with 700+ people on his email list, painstakingly typing a message to engage them in another year’s effort. Hundreds answer his call.
The walls of Don’s tidy home in Kansas City are lined with pictures of family and awards that recognize his continued volunteer efforts for numerous local charities: March of Dimes (21 yrs); Multiple Sclerosis Society (19 yrs), American Diabetes Association (14 yrs), Muscular Dystrophy Association (37 yrs); Foresters Fraternal Benefit Society (36 yrs); Amateur Radio Operator (20 yrs); American Diabetes Assn (14 yrs); Brain Injury Association (11 yrs); and Salvation Army (5 yrs); plus others.
The causes closest to his heart these days are his church and the March of Dimes, specifically the Kansas Chapter’s Bikers for Babies event. He’s been involved for each of its 23 years, today serving as chairman and volunteer coordinator for the event that attracts thousands of motorcycle riders. His leadership has been instrumental in making this event the #1 charity ride in the nation, helping to raise $8.6 million for March of Dimes.
~Written by Lind Odell
Dealing with Miracles: Article about Don Post, by HuffPost
Don Post has been volunteering in Kansas City MO for 30+ years. Johnny Dare told his listeners about a special presentation to Don at a Bikers for Babies “thank you” party in October 2009.
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