A Life-Altering Fall with Mounting Medical Bills

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind-hearted Strangers,

Life is unpredictable. In a split second, the world as you know it can change forever. My younger brother, Joe Kalafat recently experienced this when he suffered a devastating fall off a roof. As he stepped off a ladder, he tragically plummeted to the ground, causing injuries that are hard to fathom.

The gravity of his injuries includes:

• A severe concussion from the forceful impact to his head.

• Multiple broken ribs, causing immense pain with every breath.

• Fractured spinal processes, jeopardizing his mobility.

• Numerous cuts, bruises, and a nearly severed tongue, a testament to the violent nature of the fall.

After enduring a full day in the emergency room, Joe is now home, but his journey to recovery will be long and strenuous. What compounds this already heartbreaking situation is he is currently in between jobs and lacks health insurance, leaving him with soaring medical bills he cannot afford.

Many of you may recognize me as "Laser" from the TV show "American Gladiators." While those days were filled with competition and challenges, nothing compares to the real-life battle my brother now faces. I'm humbly reaching out to the incredible community we built together, my fans, and all those who've cheered me on in the past, to support Joe in this critical moment.

Joe is not just my brother, he's a son, an uncle, a friend to many, and a cherished member of our community. Today, he finds himself in dire financial straits due to an unforeseeable accident.

For this reason, I'm reaching out with a heavy heart, seeking your support. Joe would never ask on his own behalf, so I feel compelled to be his voice.

Whether it's a donation, sharing this campaign, or even sending healing thoughts and prayers our way, every bit helps. The funds raised will directly assist in covering Joe’s medical expenses, alleviating the financial stress so he can focus entirely on healing.

In times of adversity, I've always believed in the inherent goodness of people. I've seen communities come together and lift those in need. If you can, please consider being a beacon of hope for Joe during his darkest hour. We are eternally grateful for any assistance, big or small.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Warmly, Jim Kalafat-Starr formerly a.k.a. Laser from the American Gladiators & Family