Joel Whyms is an Army veteran who lost both of his legs to complications from diabetes and blood clots. A barbecue benefit has been scheduled to raise funds to modify a van for his use.

VALDOSTA – Wheelchair guys have strong hands.

Joel Whyms has such hands.

Despite his wheelchair, Whyms is used to helping others rather than asking for help.

Before losing both of his legs to complications from diabetes and blood clots, he stood 6-foot-4. He served in the Army as a paratrooper and an infantryman. He’s a father of four children, has served five years as president of W.G. Nunn Elementary School Parent-Teacher Organization, works as building superintendent for Serenity Church.

He’s a leader of his Masonic Lodge, Joshua 90 International F&M Masons of Valdosta, which regularly provides back-to-school supplies to area children, adopted a street for clean up, raises funds for numerous projects.

Whyms is not used to asking for help, but said he needs it now.

He needs the engine repaired in his van. He needs the van modified so he can drive it through the strength of his hands. Really, Whyms said, he could use a new van modified for him.

“I’m not a prideful man but I’m not used to asking for anything,” Whyms said.

His oldest son told him, Dad, you have helped Valdosta for so long, “why not let Valdosta help you?”

This week, Kemet Universal and Red Dirt BBQ are helping Whyms with a barbecue sale, said Eddie Koonce of Kemet Universal Ancient African and Egyptian Masonic & OES Order.

Whyms has established an Internet GoFundMe site.

Serenity Church is accepting donations.

Whyms keeps going.

His right leg was amputated in December 2010.

“I keep a positive outlook on everything,” he said. “When I lost the first one, I’m not a person for a pity party, I kept moving.”

He knew he would eventually lose his left leg.

That day came earlier this year.

Whyms’ right leg was amputated in January.

Losing his first leg, he received his prothesis and walked out of the office. Walking on two protheses has proven difficult. He relies more on the wheelchair.

He relies on his faith.

“Everything is part of God’s plan,” Whyms said. “I don’t question Him.”

Red Dirt BBQ and Kemet Universal present the benefit barbecue for Joel Whyms, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Serenity Church on Lee Street; rib plate, $8; chicken, $7; pulled pork, $6; sausage, $3; hot dog, $2. Whyms seeks $3,000 for van modifications on his GoFundMe.com/joelwhyms site. Serenity Church is collecting donations which can be made directly to the church to benefit Whyms.