My best friend Brayden Richardson recently experienced an unimaginable loss. His only parent, his mom, Ms. Barbara Richardson passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Brayden is a junior at Coronado High School in Colorado Springs and with Ms. Barbara gone, he suddenly finds himself navigating life with very limited family support. His aunt, Ms. Barbara’s eldest sister Arlesia immediately traveled from Texas and has been here ever since, providing the guidance he desperately needs during such a painful time. Her support has been a lifeline, and with her blessing, Brayden will be staying here in Colorado Springs with close family friends so he can remain in the community he knows. School has become one of the few places where Brayden can still feel like himself. He was on the varsity football and basketball teams. Being part of those teams has given him a sense of normalcy, belonging, community, and moments when he can feel like a regular teenager again. His teammates, coaches, and school community have been a huge source of comfort. Despite all the unknowns he is facing, Brayden is determined to stay here in Colorado Springs, finish his education at Coronado, and continued building the future his mom always hoped for him. After high school, he plans to attend a local vocational school and work toward a stable, independent life. Any support-big or small will help Brayden remain in the community he knows, stay connected to the activities and friends that keep him grounded, and continue moving forward during an incredibly difficult time.