Briana Keys- Undergoing double amputation surgery

My name is D'Andrea Keys-Rounds (D’Andi). I am the first born daughter of Deborah R. Keys, the granddaughter of the late Rev. J.R. and Mrs. Bertha F. Keys.

Briana Keys is my younger sister, Deborah's second born daughter.

On February 8, 2021, between 2 am and 5 am, Briana Keys, was accidentally locked out of her home, in inclement weather, wearing insufficient clothing. After calling 911 and Chicago's 311 help line, she was refused any assistance. Briana tried calling neighbors, but due to the late hour her calls were unanswered. Briana was left with no choice but to walk to the nearest police station, over a mile away. She was approached by a police vehicle, but was told she could not enter the police vehicle. For three hours she stumbled and struggled along the snow filled Streets of Inner City Chicago, IL, even attempting to knock on a door or two. As a result, Briana is left with 4th degree frost bite, and is now requiring double amputation below the knees. 

During the time outside Briana was reliant only on God, as her faculties began to decline, she could barely speak, and her body was beginning to protect itself from the weather.

 

Briana has a quiet and unassuming demeanor. She loves children and is a people person. 

As many of you know, Briana recently became a first time home owner within the last couple of years. Briana, a graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago, with a BA in Fine Arts Photography, began her own business, Lem and Pear LLC., in efforts to begin community healing and rebuilding. Offering the second unit in her building as a community artist space to be used for events like yoga and small mental health gatherings, she was working towards completing a dark room for photography on the lower level of her property. Her vision was creating a safe space for others to work towards reframing and reclaiming their lives. Due to these tragic circumstances, Briana is currently no longer able to support herself, as she was an Uber driver. The many costs associated with the unfortunate turn of events are too great to accomplish alone. 

Asking for help isn't easy, but Briana and the Keys family are in need of it, at this time. Even with insurance, medical costs for Briana's current care is overwhelming; costs to revamp her home so that it is wheel chair accessible, and her overall survival. We ask that you share this with family and friends, as we help Briana to rebuild her life and strength, one day at a time. If you are able to support in any capacity, during our time of need, it would be greatly appreciated. This unexpected tragedy has placed a financial burden on the family. Briana faces a long road to recovery and she, along with her family, needs as much help and support as we can get. We know under the current COVID crisis, this could pose as an imposition for most. If you can find it in your heart to give, we thank you in advance. May God Bless you and keep you.

D'Andrea R. Keys-Rounds