All was lost but faith. Help me rebuild my life.

Hello all,

For those of you that do not know me, my name is Mike Brown, I'm a passionate traveler, climber, professional guide and a so-called "vanlifer". The past four years living this lifestyle have given me some of the most rewarding moments and also some of the most challenging in my life. On January the 18th, however I experienced my most challenging moment ever. The following is a slightly edited social media post describing the situation. I believe it perfectly captures the emotions and explains why I'm here asking for your help.

"I’m kind of at a loss for words right now, and not even sure why I’m sharing this…

I returned to Las Vegas this afternoon, had lunch with a friend and he took me to where my van is parked in storage. We arrived only to find my van (my home, the one I built by myself and with the help of friends with no all of my possessions inside) and my motorcycle had been stolen.

I know things are just things…I once donated everything I own to charity. 6 or 7 years ago, my 65 liter backpack that had been around the world with me holding all of my things was stolen leaving me with just the clothes on my back and my passport.

This time its a big deal…. Everything I own is gone!!! Climbing, hiking, camping gear for two…everything I could possibly need to do all the things I love… jewelry I’ve had since I was 17 years old, my mothers jewelry…my Professional DJ equipment and a 14 year old hard drive with my entire portfolio of travel photo and electronic music collection on it…all of my clothes but the 3 sets I brought with me on the trip I just went on….things I carved with my own hands…essentially everything that I worked so hard to obtain for about the last 10 years!

 I just don’t get it…I don’t know what to think…I don’t know what to do. I’m not depressed and I won’t be, I’ve talked to friends already so I’m well looked after but this is just too much..."

I have filed police reports, investigations are ongoing and insurance claims have been made. The van and motorcycle were insured, but not the contents inside. My property was stored at a gated facility with a key-pad entry, and my lease agreement released the facility from all liability. Many of the things I lost are simply irreplacable, but the things that help me to do everything that makes me happy in life are indeed physical. Any donations will help me to purchase new clothes, climbing, hiking, canyoneering, photography and camping gear...all of the things I need to keep me outside, comfortable and happy, and continue to share the adventurous lifestyle that I live with my family and friends.

Thanks for visiting this page. You can check out Instagram account if we aren't already friends @themikebrown78 to see some of my adventures and if you would like to donate gear instead of funds here, please contact me there.