<div>Brian's story is one of strength, resilience, and courage. Diagnosed with diabetes at just ten years of age, he has faced challenges most of us cannot imagine. Diabetes can be deeply debilitating because it is a chronic illness that can lead to serious complications affecting multiple organs. Over the years, Brian has experienced wide-reaching effects of the disease including major impacts to his cardiovascular and nervous system.
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<div>In 2023, Brian's life changed forever when complications led to the loss of his left leg. Things that most of us take for granted like walking, standing, and climbing stairs became a daily obstacle. The hardest part for Brian wasn't just the physical pain, but the loss of independence. He has always been self- reliant, and now he was having to depend on others for basic needs. For those of us who know him well, Brian is proud (and stubborn!) and hates to ask for help. Brian's close circle of friends became his lifeline. They rallied around him and never made him feel like a burden. Despite the hardships, Brian persevered, and with the help of a prosthetic leg, he began to rebuild his independence. Slowly he found new ways to enjoy life, even if it looked different than before.
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<div>Brian started traveling across the country to visit close childhood friends. Reuniting with the friends who had known him before the amputation felt like stepping back into a part of himself that he had lost. Together, they reminisced, shared stories, and created new memories. They reminded him of his fighting spirit and he felt like he had reached a turning point. He realized that he could still live fully and embrace adventure. In many ways, it was the beginning of reclaiming his joy.
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<div>When Brian lost his left leg in 2023, doctors warned him that the right leg was already at risk. Diabetes doesn't just affect one spot, it damages circulation and nerves throughout the body. One small wound, one unnoticed sore, can spiral into infection and turn into something life threatening.
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<div>Unfortunately, in September 2025, Brian was back in the hospital facing the same circumstances with his right leg. He now faces new life challenges as a double amputee and has been forced to start over once again learning new ways to navigate life.
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<div>Diabetes may have taken both of Brian's legs, but it has not taken his spirit. He has always been a fighter and he refuses to let the disease define his life. He is a loving father to two boys who look up to him as their hero and strength. His courage and determination will empower them to always keep fighting no matter what life throws at you.
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<div>It isnt easy for Brian to admit it, and asking for support goes against his nature. But the truth is, he needs us now. He needs to know that he doesn't need to carry this fight alone. Let's all come together for a man who has shown remarkable courage and strength, and has always been there for others. These funds will go toward:
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<div>-medical care/bills
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<div>-grocery delivery services, (Instacart)
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<div>-home modifications/safety
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<div>-cleaning services
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<div>Every share, every donation, every word of encouragement makes a difference!
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Gigi Phenix

Erika Sandler

Joann Sandler

RaeAnn Pettigrew

Laurie Ottoson

Christopher Meyers

Theresa Keevers

jeffrey fleming

Anonymous

Thomas Clark

Karen Maciorowski

Dino Minelli

abby boretto

Karen Fusari

Kurt Rode

Jeanette DePietro

Kristi Brouker

Christopher Halm

Sally Larsen

Hope starts here - let's lift Brian up!

Hope starts here - let's lift Brian up!

Still $4,259 to go. Help us build momentum.