"There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone the light remains."

We have established this fund in memory of Brian, and will be donating yearly to this cause.

Love,
Meredith, Rich, Catherine and Shawn

From Brian's family:

Our hearts are broken. This morning we lost Brian, beloved son, husband and brother. He was the bravest man I know. He fought so hard for so long to battle this terrible disease. He had to endure more pain than anyone should ever have to and he did it without complaint. He always put those he loved before himself. We will miss him so much.

Brian battled this disease for almost 16 years, through dozens of surgeries and countless treatments. Through it all he went to college, started a career, and found the love of his life. In the end the cancer proved to be too difficult to overcome. Because of his typical high tolerance for pain, even we didn’t know how sick he was. The end came very quickly for him as the cancer had completely consumed his lungs.

His life was way too short, but he lived it to the fullest. He fought right to the end and still showed compassion for others over himself even at the end. He was apologizing last week that he was sorry he was keeping me up as he was struggling to breathe in the early morning hours. That was always Brian, he never expected people to have to do things for him.

Right now, the grief is still so overwhelming.

Brian, we will always love you and are so proud of the man you were and the way you fought this disease to the end.

Love always,
Damon, Tricia, Daria, Shane, Troy and Jared

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Aaron’s Presents is a registered 501(c)(3) youth development organization that is empowering youth to create and lead positive change in their communities, developing empathy and self-worth within themselves. Youth starting in middle school can propose and carry out any idea as long as it positively impacts at least one other person, animal or the environment. It’s up to them to join, and they direct the entire process working with our Mentor team. Most of our youth live in Lawrence and Lowell, 2 cities north of Boston, MA where the opportunity gap is severe. We believe that every young person has a critical role to play in helping their communities achieve greater equity and prosperity now and for future generations, and they need to be empowered and equipped with the firsthand experiences, mentorship and skills to do so as early as possible.

Any questions, please contact Leah Okimoto, Executive Director at:
lokimoto@aaronspresents.org
978-809-5487

Other ways to give:
Facebook: @aaronspresentsgrants
Venmo: @aarons-presents
PayPal: PayPal.me/aaronspresents