Help Joel Kostman, best friend, brother, and family!

Hello friends, family, brothers...

I am raising money for Joel Kostman, who has been my best friend for over 35 years. Not only is he my best friend and fraternity brother, he is my brother, my kids' uncle, and one of the kindest people you would ever want to meet.

Joel, who many of you know as a physically strong man, has had some major health issues over the last few years.

It started about 3 years ago when he has some sores on his feet that would not heal. After months of treatment they were only left with one option, amputate his big toe in order to keep the infection from going systemic and losing his foot. This was not the last of the toe problems as some time later they were forced to take a piece of another toe for the same issue. Seeing Joel struggle to walk, because he had to learn to balance without his toe was something that makes you not take walking for granted!

About a year after he lost his toe, the real problem started. Joel was diagnosed as needing a stent put in an artery in his heart. When they began the procedure they realized he needed much more than a stent. Less than 4 days later he had a quadruple bypass... including a repair of the "widow maker" artery. After a long recovery and things seeming to get better, he began having more heart problems. Ultimately, 2 of the replaced arteries had failed and needed to be repaired themselves. Another heart surgery was needed and multiple stents were put into arteries. Another long recovery began.

Joel is finally able to resume his normal activities, however after being out of work for over 2 years, his savings is depleted. He has been actively looking for a new position in his field.

Joel is a proud man and has never asked anyone for help. He has been my best friend for over 35 years. His family is my family and vice-versa. There is nothing I wouldn't do for him, his wife or kids. Right now they need my/our help just providing for daily life. This gofundme is to help provide their basic necessities; shelter, food, utilities, and ongoing medical needs.

Anything you can spare is greatly appreciated. I know not everyone is in the position to be able to donate money, if you aren't, sharing this fundraiser is just as valuable. Let's help out a brother in need!!

Thank you!!

Cliff