Help Brendan Recover and Rebuild

As many of you know, in late 2023, my life changed dramatically when I was diagnosed with a cerebral AVM (Arteriovenous Malformation) and an inner carotid artery aneurysm—two rare and serious conditions that required immediate, intensive medical intervention. For those unfamiliar, an AVM is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels in the brain that is absent of capillaries, preventing normal blood flow, and that can lead to strokes, brain hemorrhages, and other life-threatening complications, including the seizures and the aneurysm that I’ve had.

Thanks to the incredible care of my medical team at UCLA Neurosurgery, Radiation Oncology, Interventional Neuroradiology, and Neurology, I’ve undergone successful treatment, including embolization for my aneurysm and radiation therapy for my AVM. While I’m grateful to be on the path to recovery, the journey has been anything but easy.

Since my diagnosis, I’ve been unable to work, and I’m still figuring out what my physical and cognitive limitations are. Challenges like intermittent aphasia and fatigue have made navigating daily life and rebuilding my career more challenging. Although I’m fortunate to have Medicaid covering my medical treatment, day-to-day expenses like rent, utilities, and basic living costs are piling up. I don’t know how I’ll cover them in the coming months.

Your support will help with:

• Rent and living expenses while I recover and explore my work capabilities.

• Essential expenses, including transportation to medical appointments and daily necessities, to help alleviate financial strain.

• Rehabilitation tools and resources to aid my ongoing adaptation and growth.

• Costs for establishing self-employment as I work to rebuild my career and regain financial stability.

Asking for help isn’t easy, but I’m reaching out because I can’t do this alone. Every bit of support, no matter how small, makes a real difference in helping me get through this recovery period. If donating isn’t an option, sharing this fundraiser would mean so much.

I’m incredibly thankful for the kindness and support I’ve received from my family, friends, and community—it’s been a constant source of strength during this challenging time. Your generosity and encouragement continue to give me the strength to face these challenges.

Thank you for being part of my journey.

With gratitude,

Brendan