Help for Joey Ortiz and his family ❤️

Dear family, friends and coworkers, our dear friend JoAnna Ortiz Whalen’s, beloved brother Joey Ortiz, has suffered a devastating brain injury. We ask for all your love, support and prayers during this difficult time.

Joey is a lover of life, loves his family and friends with all his heart. He is always willing to lend a helping hand and would give the shirt off his back to anyone. Joey has worked at various Vons throughout Ventura County for over 25 years. He and his fiancé, Jessica live in Camarillo, have enjoyed playing in slow pitched softball leagues, supporting Jessica’s son, Anthony in baseball, hanging out with family and friends, camping and outdoor adventures.

The purpose of this GoFundMe is to offset the financial burden on Joey and Jessica’s family during this emotional and challenging time.

Together we can lighten their load and help them in their time of need.

If you are unable to donate, your thoughts, prayers and positive energy are deeply appreciated.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Rebecca Palacios

Update:

We prayed and believed Joey would be blessed with the biggest miracle. We hoped that Joey would regain consciousness or show any sign of improvement. Unfortunately, there were more signs showing how severe the brain injury is. The lack of oxygen to his brain is so extensive that Joey will never be the person that we all know and love.

Over the last few days, we have been working with One Legacy to help fulfill Joey’s last wishes. Within the last three years, Joey became an organ donor - this is no surprise to those who know him. Joey is always helping someone, be it our grandmother, family, friends, or in this case, the gift of life to a stranger.

Please continue to uplift Joey, Jessica her son Anthony, the Ortiz Family, and our extended families in prayer, love, and positive thoughts as we prepare to fulfill Joey’s final wish which is taking place today.

As we transition into this final phase we request that today in Joey’s honor you also pay it forward. Do something special for someone or even a stranger. Please pay it forward in honor of Joey.

We appreciate the outpouring of love and prayers and request privacy at this time.

JoAnna