My brother, Brian Suero Portes, was the kindest person I knew. He was the father of the sweetest five-year-old, and he filled every room with joy and laughter. Brian was known as the life of the party, always ready with a prank or a smile, and he loved to see the world. Even as he struggled with internal health issues and mental health challenges, he remained beloved by all who knew him. He lived with our grandmother and helped her whenever he had the strength, and as a child and teenager, he was a talented athlete. Growing up, Brian took on multiple jobs to make sure my younger brother and I had what we needed, because our grandmother who raised us didn’t have much to spare.

Brian traveled to Puerto Rico to celebrate his birthday and find healing from the sun and the beach. Tragically, he died alone after a mental health crisis. I am now working with funeral homes to transfer him to the Bronx, where his family, friends, and his young son can see his face and give him a hug one last time. He deserves to rest at home, surrounded by those who love him. The cost to bring him home by plane and arrange his funeral is high, and I need help to balance out these expenses.

The funds raised will go toward all the funeral and burial procedures to ensure Brian receives the care he deserves. Some will also help support his son as he grows up, providing for his needs. Brian was shot and killed by police when all he needed was mental health resources and time to realize he wasn’t in danger. His loss has left an irreparable hole in our hearts. I ask for assistance and thank anyone who supports us. Even a little help will go a long way.