Grafting a Smile

Hello, my name is Holly, I am creating this Go Fund Me Page for my friend Josh. I used to work for a housing project for the homeless population in Denver which is how I met him. When people ask about success stories from my time at that job, I always talk about Josh. I have known him for five years now, and over that time I have seen him gain stable housing, maintain sobriety, become successfully employed and create a solid and loving community for himself through sheer determination and depth of character. Even though he is still working on overcoming the effects of a traumatic brain injury suffered when he was dragged by a light rail train, Josh works more than 60 hours a week landscaping for a client base he built himself. He does such quality, reliable work he doesn’t even need to advertise as his employers constantly refer him to other people. He rides his bike and uses public transport to get himself from job to job even in the most inclement weather Colorado can offer.

Unfortunately, consistent dental care is not one of the things readily available to those in the unhoused community, and during Josh’s time as one of the homeless, all his teeth were pulled. He recently purchased his dentures but is suffering bone loss as a complication of having no teeth which will continue unless he gets dental implants. We (myself and his community) are trying to raise money for Josh’s teeth implants, which will require bone grafts and oral surgery. This will be a long and painful process, but Josh found an oral surgeon who is willing to work with him.

I cannot speak enough to this man’s kindness, tenacity, sense of humor, work ethic and ability to overcome barriers. I am exceedingly proud to know him. I am creating this post but I am backed by everyone who has come to know and love Josh who will also contribute to his cause. Any surplus money that is made on this he would like to donate to others who have gone through what he has.

P.S. If you are wondering why the picture of the guinea pig, it’s because Josh is also an incredibly dedicated pig dad to Bam Bam and Pam, his lucky swines who he cares for with adoring dedication.