In Loving Memory of Brad Searl

Hi I'm Sharan McLeish, a very close friend of Brad Searl and Shelly Vigorito.

I'm reaching out to share the heartbreaking news about our dear friend Brad, who recently received a stage 4 cancer diagnosis.

Just 2 months ago on July 5th, he welcomed his first grandchild into this world, a moment that should have been filled with joy and celebration.

Unfortunately, life took an unexpected turn.

His journey began with routine bloodwork in early August, which revealed dangerously low platelet levels. On August 12th, his doctor instructed him to go to the ER immediately! After a series of tests, including MRI's, CT scans, and bloodwork, the cause of his low platelets remained a mystery. A bone marrow biopsy on August 16th led to an initial diagnosis of a rare blood disorder called ITP, and he began receiving immunoglobulin transfusions.

However, on August 20th, the results pointed towards an uncommon infection rather than cancer. For a short time, we were hopeful as his liver and spleen appeared to be healing. But, as the days passed, his condition worsened. On August 29th he underwent a liver biopsy, and by September 13th we were blindsided by the news he has stage 4 Angiosarcoma. His body is riddled with cancer, but the Dr's did give us hope that he has an 80% chance of going into remission with chemotherapy.

Since then he has bravely fought through multiple platelet, blood, and plasma transfusions, as well as 1 chemotherapy session on Sept Friday the 13th. After this first treatment, further complications arose. He started coughing up blood, and is having trouble breathing, and is now on oxygen, and antibiotics as they are not sure if the blood is due to another infection or if it's actually in his lungs. His platelet counts are too low to do a scope of his lungs. They need to stabilize this complication before he can continue chemotherapy. Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful, drawing strength from his family, especially his loving partner Shelly and his daughter Darian, as well as his precious grandson Atlas.

Shelly has had to take significant time off work since he first went into the hospital. As a registered massage therapist, she does not receive paid time off, making this situation more stressful and challenging for the family.

As a well known musician in the Toronto area, Brad has entertained many of us for years, bringing joy and music into our lives. Now it's our turn to support him and his family during this incredibly difficult time.

We are creating this GoFundMe on behalf of Shelly and Darian to help alleviate the financial burdens that come with his medical care/expenses, and to support them as they navigate this journey that no one ever wants to find themselves on.

Every contribution, big or small, will make a significant difference!!!

Let's come together to help our friend continue his fight against cancer, so he can create beautiful memories with his grandson!!!

Thank YOU for your love, support, and generosity.

With Much Gratitude,

Sharan