This GoFundMe has been set up to assist Heather Genusa as she faces the aftermath of the terrorist attack in New Orleans’ French Quarter. I am her paternal aunt, Mary Genusa Smith.

On January 1st, Heather’s fiancé, Brandon Taylor, was murdered in front of her during a terrorist attack in New Orleans. Heather and Brandon were enjoying a New Year’s celebration when a terrorist, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove his truck into the crowd of New Year’s revelers. After Brandon was hit by the terrorist’s truck, Heather held Brandon’s hand, talked to him, and did all she could to help him breathe. Sadly, Brandon died from the massive injuries he sustained. The terrorist exited his truck and began shooting, at one point aiming his gun in Heather’s direction, killing other people around her. Now, instead of walking to Brandon as he waits for her at the end of the aisle, she must bury him.

The graphic images of her fiancé’s last moments and the murder of fourteen people will haunt her throughout her life. Since then, in shock, she has repeated, “It was like a war zone. People were dead all around me.” Sleep is impossible and she experiences frequent bouts of crying. She has sought mental health support, but that is a long road. Her employment involves presenting a cheerful face to the public; it will be a long time before she can do that again. In the meantime, bills continue for housing, transportation, daily living, and expenses related to experiencing such a trauma.

Heather has always been a hard worker and willing to help others. Now, she needs support to get through this time.

The beneficiary of these funds will be Heather Genusa and her son Jeffery while she is unable to work. She will use the funds for housing, gas, utilities, and other basic living expenses.

Any contributions, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference. Please join us in supporting Heather Genusa during this trying time.

For more information regarding Brandon’s service please refer to the link below.

https://www.mothefunerals.com/obituaries/brandon-taylor