Brett was diagnosed on January 25, 2019 with GBM (Glio Blastoma Multiforme) brain cancer. He had brain surgery on January 27, 2019. The surgery left him left side semi-paralyzed, and Brett was left handed. This was very frustrating to a man that was ALWAYS on the go. Brett was always busy either hunting, fishing, making woodwork creations, tying flies, creating new flies, building fishing and fly rods, making hand crafted fishing nets, helping others, volunteering at church and spending time with his family, wife and dog. Brett tried radiation and chemo, but it did't work for him. Brett and his wife, Mary, discussed what Brett's final wishes would be. Brett kept repeating: "I'm an organ donor!" and I want to help others. Brett passed away a few months after his diagnosis. Brett donated his brain and brain stem to cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center under the care of amazing Dr. Chheda. Since GBM is localized in the brain and does not spread, Brett was able to donate bone and skin tissue. Brett's family is SO grateful that Brett will continue helping others through his donation.
