Dear Readers, we share these stories of two former local athletes to enlist any support, financial or emotional, that can be given to them and their families as they fight their way back to health. When a family faces a crisis, knowing they are not alone helps tremendously.
Waterville graduate Jordan Keshler grew up golfing at Barker Brook when his dad, Dave, owned the Oriskany Falls course. Jordan golfed on the WCS team and arguably is the best golfer to swing a club for the Indians. His success continued well after that, as he competed in numerous prestigious competitions against the best after attending Coastal Carolina University.
He returned to work as superintendent of Barker Brook and lives in New Hartford with his wife, Sonia, and their not-yet-one-year-old daughter Charlee.
But for the last eight years, Jordan has lived with a heart that slowly failed to function. According to his sister Erica Raspante’s account of her brother’s medical problems, by late last year Jordan required a new heart to survive.
Last week at Massachusetts General Jordan received his new heart thanks to the generosity of someone who chose to be an organ donor. As of this writing, Jordan got through the surgery amazingly and is recovering.
Obviously the medical costs are staggering. Donations can be made through Facebook at the Jordan Keshler-Heart Transplant Fund or by going to his sister’s FB page, Erica Keshler Raspante. Please keep this young dad in your prayers as well.
Another fund raiser has been set up to help with the medical costs for Andy Maxam, former hockey player for the Clinton Warriors. A month ago Andy suffered injuries so severe from a motorcycle accident he, as of this writing, remains in a coma.
Andy, 22, has had surgeries on a badly injured foot and to relieve the swelling of his brain. Andy has other injuries and is at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse. His parents, Doug and Patti Maxam, and brother Tom take shifts so Andy always has someone there.
Heather Martin, whose son played CCS hockey with Andy, set up a GoFundMe page called Team Andy and the Maxam Family. As Andy heals through this initial phase, his longterm recovery needs are not yet known, but the medical bills are adding up.
As well, prayers and good thoughts go a long way to giving support to his family. Any financial donation that can be made will be gratefully appreciated.
Both of these examples serve as reminders how life can take turns we don’t expect. Sometimes we need help, sometimes we can give help. Please do what you can.