On September 10th my little brother, Andy O'Brien (PeeWee), and his friend, Alana, were hit by a drunk driver while walking home after sharing some drinks and tacos at a tavern only a few blocks from her home. Rather than risk driving under the influence themselves, they opted to walk the short distance home. Shortly after leaving, they were hit by a drunk driver off Tracyton Boulevard in Bremerton, WA. Tragically, Andy's friend, Alana, did not survive her injuries and passed away at the scene. Andy was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where he remains in critical condition in the ICU.

For those of you who don't know my brother, he is the kind of person you see coming from a hundred feet away. Maybe it's all that 80's neon he wears, or the sweet smile he's always flashing. It could also be the unmistakable sparkle in his bright, blue eyes or the way he greets everyone with a huge hug. A recent college graduate who just finished his student teaching, Andy has big dreams of returning to the town of Gig Harbor where he grew up in hopes of becoming a Physical Education (PE) teacher. As someone deeply commited to physical health and wellness, the injuries Andy has suffered will certainly have a monumental impact on his life. We are hopeful he will return to hiking, kayaking, and his beloved disc golf sooner rather than later.

Unfortunately, as a recent graduate, Andy does not have any health insurance. The medical bills and recovery expenses he is already accruing will easily reach into the million dollar range. We are asking anyone who is able to donate whatever amount they can to help support Andy as he fights for the future he so deserves.

Our family thanks you all for your love and support. Please remind your friends, your children, and anyone who will listen not to drink and drive. Our thoughts, prayers, and sorrow are with Alana's family and all who have lost loved ones in these very preventable tragedies.