Hi friends, my name is Shai, and I'm starting this GoFundMe for someone incredibly special to me — my good friend from high school, Josh Kelly, who is celebrating his 30th birthday today (07/29/2025).

A few years ago, Josh's life changed forever after a tragic overdose. He was left alone in that moment by someone he trusted. Miraculously, he survived — but not without life-altering consequences. Josh lost most of his eyesight and his ability to function like he used to.

And yet… if you met him today, you’d still see the same bright, hilarious, and soulful spirit that’s always made him shine. Despite it all, he remains Josh — warm, creative, funny, and full of fight.

Before the overdose, Josh was thriving as a music producer and photographer in California. He lived and breathed art, sound, and visuals — creating beauty from chaos. While his body and eyes have had to relearn the world, I don't think his soul has ever stopped dreaming that he can get back to creating art he loves.

By blessings from above, Josh is finally starting to regain some of his vision. For the first time in years, he's seeing more than shadows and movement again — and with the right tools, he could start creating again too.

What We're Raising Money For

We want to help Josh return to what he loves: making music and art.

Your support will help us raise $3,000 to get him:

A laptop that works well with visual impairment software (screen readers, magnifiers, and accessibility settings). ($1500)

GlassOuse adaptive equipment — it's a hands-free mouse system that I've researched and believe will allow him to navigate tech more easily. ($1000)

A DJ controller pad — a tactile and intuitive way for him to reconnect with music production. ($500)

This setup won’t just give him a hobby — it will restore his voice. It will help him express himself again, create, and connect to the world around him in a way that’s fulfilling and joyful.

Why This Matters

Josh didn’t ask for this fundraiser. I want to surprise him, because I know what a gift it would be to show him that the people who love him see him — not just his struggles, but his incredible strength and his creative heart.

If you’ve ever known someone who’s lost so much and kept going… if you believe in second chances and the power of art to heal… I invite you to be part of this story.

No amount is too small. Every share and every dollar helps bring us closer to getting Josh the tools he needs to create again.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for showing up for our friend.

With love,

Scruffy