#BJStrong - For BJ’s Recovery

Hello Family, Friends, and Supporters, 

My name is Debbie and I am BJ's Great-Grandmother. 

Let me start by introducing you to the amazing child I know. Since the day he was born, he has been a beacon of light. BJ is a lovable 3 year old whose personality continues to fill every room. He loves books, sports, and can identify every style of vehicle on or off the road. 

On February 13, 2022 as the world prepared to watch the Super Bowl, our world changed forever. BJ unknowingly woke up from his midday nap and immediately headed to the backyard to play with his sports balls and oversized Mack trucks. A sitter who dozed off themselves, two locked doors, and a house dog three times his size did not deter BJ from going “outside” as he lovingly calls it. BJ, a new but confident swimmer, was found moments later unresponsive in the pool.

Unfortunately, water accidents are way too common. Factoring in its status as the third-most-populous state, Florida ranks No. 4 nationwide in the rate of unintentional drownings among children ages 4 and under, as it has since 2017, according to the Florida Department of Health. 

Life saving measures were immediately applied and the paramedics were able to find a pulse. BJ was rushed to the hospital and has spent the past couple of weeks fighting. By the grace of God, amazing doctors and nurses, and a community of family and friends who gather daily to pray below the window of his hospital room, BJ is progressing and was released from the ICU into general care recently. 

This fundraiser is to provide financial support for BJ and his parents, Shakilya and Brandon. They are amazing parents and are doing everything in their power to be strong for BJ while getting him the proper healthcare on his road to what we all are believing to be a full recovery. 

On this last day of March, also know as Brain Injury Awareness Month, I am reminded that awareness on how traumatic brain injuries can happen and how the road to recovery is a journey. In BJ’s situation, we are grateful that he is now breathing on his own, conscious, learning how to swallow, has controlled eye movement, and has progressed beyond the capabilities of his current medical facility. 

We are also extremely fortunate that because of this progression, BJ has been accepted into a hospital in Baltimore that specializes in recovery for traumatic brain injuries. This program will provide BJ with intensive therapy. 

In April, BJ and Mom will be medevacked to the facility and Dad will take a flight to join them shortly thereafter. Your support, prayers, and love are still needed as BJ continues to recover and improve. May God bless you for your hearts as he continues to heal this family.

Sincerely, 

Great-Grandmother Debbie