Meet Brandon

Meet Brandon who is studying Engineering at Cal Poly

Health and education are my two main objectives at this time in my life. My number one priority is my health, because without it nothing else matters. I was diagnosed with autoimmune disorders at the age of nine. After eight years of doctors’ appointments, hospital stays, countless blood draws and thousands of pills, I needed a liver transplant.

I deferred the start of my college career at California Polytechnic University San Luis Obispo studying Engineering, in order to get a new liver. I received the gift of a new liver in August 2012! While I am forever grateful for this new opportunity in life, it has not been without difficulties. Navigating the path through college can prove difficult for anyone, but managing my health on top of it has required tremendous effort and patience with my limitations.

For the past five years, I have suffered with daily nausea, jaundice and extreme fatigue. Unfortunately, my doctors have informed me that I need a second liver transplant. I am still processing this information while trying to finish my classes and receive my Engineering degree. I am not looking forward to the surgery, but am hopeful that I will gain renewed strength and energy.

Needless to say, the medical bills are continuous and will only increase as I prepare for my second transplant. That is where The Orion Fund stepped in to help! I can’t begin to express how grateful I am for their encouragement and financial assistance. I hope that the people who support The Orion Fund realize how their financial donations have eliminated stress in my life, and have made it possible for me to reach both of my objectives: graduating from college and getting a new liver. Once my health is restored, I will be busy living my life to the fullest and cherishing each and every day!