In the Divine Nine, we say “I am my brother’s keeper.” Today, we are being called to live that out for Barry Walker—a beloved Alpha Phi Alpha man, a friend, and a survivor. Barry recently endured what doctors call a widowmaker heart attack, one of the most deadly forms of cardiac arrest. He was hospitalized for 40 days, during which his medical team literally brought him back from death. By the grace of God, he is alive today and shared these words after being released: “Ships, I’ve been reborn. Recovering will take 2 to 3 months, but I’m happy to be alive.”
While Barry’s life was spared, the aftermath has been overwhelming. As he continues physical therapy and strength training, the reality of life didn’t pause. He is two months behind on rent, his internet service has been disconnected, and he has received formal notices for overdue rent. Barry is unable to work at full capacity while recovering, and the financial stress is mounting. In his own words: “If it wasn’t for God, I’d be a little bit depressed of what I have to go through. It’s nice to know my brothers got my back.” And most recently: “I’m trying to make it day by day, but stuff keeps happening and piling up… In a word, help.”
He’s my brother. He’s heavier than hell right now. But I’ll carry him anyway. And I’m asking you to help me carry him too. This is about brotherhood—not just Alpha Phi Alpha, but the entire Divine Nine, friends, family, and anyone with a heart. This is about making sure a man who survived death doesn’t now lose his stability while he’s still healing. Your support will help keep a roof over his head, bring him current on rent, and allow him to recover without the constant fear of eviction. Most importantly, it will remind him he is not fighting alone.
No gift is too small. Every dollar is a hand on his back. If you can’t give, please share. If you can pray, please pray. If you’ve ever been carried by someone else—this is your moment to give that back. Thank you for standing with us. I am my brother’s keeper.
While Barry’s life was spared, the aftermath has been overwhelming. As he continues physical therapy and strength training, the reality of life didn’t pause. He is two months behind on rent, his internet service has been disconnected, and he has received formal notices for overdue rent. Barry is unable to work at full capacity while recovering, and the financial stress is mounting. In his own words: “If it wasn’t for God, I’d be a little bit depressed of what I have to go through. It’s nice to know my brothers got my back.” And most recently: “I’m trying to make it day by day, but stuff keeps happening and piling up… In a word, help.”
He’s my brother. He’s heavier than hell right now. But I’ll carry him anyway. And I’m asking you to help me carry him too. This is about brotherhood—not just Alpha Phi Alpha, but the entire Divine Nine, friends, family, and anyone with a heart. This is about making sure a man who survived death doesn’t now lose his stability while he’s still healing. Your support will help keep a roof over his head, bring him current on rent, and allow him to recover without the constant fear of eviction. Most importantly, it will remind him he is not fighting alone.
No gift is too small. Every dollar is a hand on his back. If you can’t give, please share. If you can pray, please pray. If you’ve ever been carried by someone else—this is your moment to give that back. Thank you for standing with us. I am my brother’s keeper.
Organizer and beneficiary
Barry Walker
Beneficiary






