A vigil was held Friday for a Bridgeport man who lost a long battle with heart and kidney diseases as well as multiple amputations. 

Jose "Joey" Ortiz, who is well-known in the community, died on Wednesday after years of struggling with an array of medical challenges, including four heart attacks, stage 4 kidney disease and multiple amputations. Ortiz was 35.

City Clerk Lydia Martinez commented on Ortiz's passing saying, "Joey was a beautiful young man, and we're coming together for the last time today to help him. We'll be gathering at his house to raise money for his funeral."

News 12 helped Ortiz with multiple aid efforts, including the “Needs Clearing House” campaign that resulted in the donation of a portable wheelchair ramp.

A vigil was held at the Ortiz home on Newfield Avenue Friday, and his funeral is set for Aug. 12.  Donations can be made at Luz de Paz Funeral Home.