Brady joined the Camp Rise Above family in 2016 as a 9-year-old camper. With his recent diagnosis of Tourette’s, he was timid and quiet that first summer. However, with every passing year he became more outgoing and confident. He made friends and tried new things. In 2021, Brady attended our very first week of overnight camp and thrived.
In 2023, Brady was scheduled to be a Leader-in-Training with CRA. He was excited to help campers like him, looking for a place to belong. We were excited to have Brady grow into a leadership role and looked forward to the day he would become a counselor.
On July 18, 2023, our dear camper Brady passed away at the age of sixteen from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. His family made the heroic decision to improve the lives of more than 75 people through organ and tissue donation. All gifts made to CRA in memory of Brady will directly provide life-changing camp experiences to campers for years to come by providing full camperships so that everyone can experience the magic of camp. We believe everyone deserves a place where they truly belong, and we are honored to have been that place for Brady.
Learn more about Tourette Syndrome, preventing CO2 poisoning, and organ donation below.
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that becomes evident in early childhood or adolescence. It is part of the spectrum of Tic Disorders and is characterized by motor and vocal tics. To learn more and to support TS research,
Learn more.
Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. It cannot be seen, smelled, or heard, but poisoning can be avoided. If you suspect a leak or are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, call 911 or your local fire department immediately. To learn more, Learn more.
Up to eight lives can be lives can be saved through one organ donor hero. Though a person may never know the impact of their gift of donation, the ripple effects are endless and the legacy of donor heroes lives on through donor families and transplant recipients. To learn more about organ donation, Learn more.