Joan Athey has been my dear friend for 29 years, and right now, she is facing the unimaginable. On January 30, 2026, Joan lost her beloved son, Brian, while he was in the Philippines. The pain of losing a child is something no parent should ever have to endure, and Joan is now navigating not only her grief but also the overwhelming financial and logistical challenges that come with bringing Brian home.

Joan is unable to afford the mounting medical bills and hospital costs from Brian’s time in the Philippines. On top of that, there are significant expenses involved in obtaining the necessary permits and arranging for Brian’s return to the United States. The process is complicated and costly, and Joan simply does not have the resources to manage it all on her own.

We are reaching out to our community for help. Every contribution, no matter the size, will go directly toward covering the medical bills, hospital costs, permits, and travel expenses needed to bring Brian home. Joan and her family would greatly appreciate any financial support they can get during this heartbreaking time. Your kindness and generosity will help give Joan and her family the closure they so desperately need, and it would mean the world to them to be able to bring their son home and put him to rest.