Huge Thanks!

Sorry it's been a while since posting on here. Brian is doing well. As you know, a few weeks ago he suffered a seizure that landed him in hospital for a few days, but he's been out and about and strong as ever. He's busy with physical therapy and "holding court!" Just recently the lads from Hermitage Green performed a private concert for Brian and Beech Lodge! And if you know Brian, there's little he loves more than music and a good ol' sing-song!

The waiting list for his stem cell therapy is taking a little longer than we expected, but Brian is in great spirits and lives for the day when he can see again. Wouldn't you?! So basically we're on cruise control at the moment, waiting for the go ahead. Naturally, it can be difficult, especially since Brian can't see. His family has been a shining example of love, patience and selflessness in taking care of Brian. Everyone has their good days and bad days. But the support that Brian's friends and family have offered will sustain both him and every person around him. Keep up the visits, letters, emails, phone calls, prayers and encouragement to Brian and his family. They are worth more than you can know!

Also, many heartfelt thanks to Brian's latest donors!
Leanne J. (U.K.) - $10.00
Joe G. (USA) - $100.00
Marion & Andrew C. (U.K.) - $290.00

On the strength of fathers, cat scans & Amy Winehouse

Yes, yes, it's time for an update.  I keep waiting for these updates to get easier, but the fact of the matter is: they don't.  I don't want to send updates because it just confirms that there's a reason for an update, and I wish (with all that I am) there was no need to sit and type these.  

Brian suffered a series of seizures on a Saturday morning, a couple of weeks ago.  I was in my kitchen chatting with a friend when the phone rang.  It was Nevis.  Not that it's unusual for Nevis to call, but I knew before I answered the phone that something wasn't right.  "Brian's in the hospital, he's had several seizures, they called 999 and the ambulance brought him to the hospital".  Silence.  It's not how you expect your day to start.  It's too far away to just jump in the car and get there.  I could tell Nevis was worried because she was quieter than her usually perky self.  "Nevis, do I need to come home"?  Silence.  "Should I call and talk to Dad"?  "Yes".  I assured her that seizures happen for a variety of reasons, and that he was being well taken care of now.  I don't remember saying goodbye, but I remember having to sit down because I couldn't feel my knees. 

I called my Dad.  I don't believe in reincarnation, but if I did, I'd want to come back as that man.  What a calm and strong man my Father is.  He really is the voice of reason.  How I wish I'd listened and observed more while growing up.  I remember saying "you don't know everything, Dad".  How ridiculous I was.  He knows his children inside and out.  "Don't panic, they're sending him for a Cat Scan, and we'll know more when the results come back".  He said "Brian is a bit out of sorts and is yelling orders at everyone, so I think he'll be okay".  I said "Dad, should I come home".  "Love, if I was worried, I'd tell you to come home".  That's all I needed to hear.  I'm a pro at booking last minute.  It's the packing that still stresses me out.  While Dad was talking, I was making a list in my head of what to pack.  I remember thinking: darn it, I just packed away a bunch of winter stuff, and now I'll have to pull it out again.  "Wait, I shouldn't come home"?  Dad: "not until I'm worried, love". 

The text message updates were pretty entertaining: He's yelling at anyone who comes close to him to get him something to eat.  He's telling the nurses that he's sick of this place and wants to be released immediately.  You can't keep me against my will.  I'd very much like a yogurt.  I'm dying of thirst here people. 

God bless Siobhan.  She sent me a long FB message giving me the details.  I could almost smell the hospital food.  Unfortunately, Brian couldn't eat anything until after his scan.  He was not a happy boy. :) He was transferred to a private room in the middle of the night.  I'm pretty sure it was because he was being a "challenge".  But the staff quickly fell in love with him, and he was constantly being supervised. 

Pretty funny stuff, but I was uneasy until I called the next morning for an update.  The scan showed some minor bleeding on the outside of the brain.  It was nothing unusual for a patient with a brain injury.  The Doctor said to my Dad "about 10% of the population experience bleeds like this, and they never know it".  I was baffled at that, but what do I know?  10% of the population is certifiably crazy as far as I'm concerned, but we're talking about my brother's brain here.  Obviously something is wrong if he's having a bleed, albeit "minor".  So, they sent him to Cork (about an hour away from Limerick) for an advanced brain scan.  That didn't show anything out of the ordinary (except the obvious damage from the incident in July 2009).  He was kept in the hospital for a few days just for observation, and then released.  Apparently he had several sing songs in the hospital.  Shane said at one stage there were 6 staff members around the bed and they were all singing!

He's back to his "normal" self now.  It's par for the course, I expect.  We'll just have to keep an eye on his temperature and watch for any type of infection, even small ones.  Great - he's now a China doll!

His mood is good.  He's just waiting for the donor approval at LifeSource in Covington, Louisiana.  Once the Stem Cells are procured, and placed in the incubator, we have to get him on a plane!  It'll happen this Spring.  I'm confident of that.  We're all so fortunate to still have him with us, so we'll do whatever it takes to get him here, and get him the best possible treatment for his injuries. 

The first time I spoke to him post "episode", I said "sing me something".  He sang "To Make You Feel My Love".  When he sang  "I'd go hungry, I'd go blind for you, I'd go crawling down the avenue, there is nothing that I wouldn't do, to make you feel my love", I thought I would crumble with sadness.  Then he took a deep breath and said "I'd love a coffee".  Par for the course, I expect.  :)  He knows exactly how to tug at the heart, and isn't afraid to do it.  Oi, such a boy!

The week before his seizures, he had been to his old Secondary (High) School.  The teachers invited him to speak to some of the students about his experience at St. Enda's.  He was a huge hit.  He told stories of how he rode his bike to school, parked it, and always wondered if all the bike parts would be there at the end of the school day. One afternoon, Brian and his friend returned to the bike area only to find his friend's bicycle saddle missing! Get him to tell you the whole story. You'll be doubled over with laughter.  He had the teachers and students laughing and crying. He encouraged the students to make the most of their time in school.  He said "go to College, work hard, be a good person, be proud of your education".  My Mother said she looked at my Father, and giant tears cascaded down his proud cheeks.  Brian didn't need notes or prompting.  He spoke from memory.  He was honest.  He told them to chose their friends wisely, as he had made some bad decisions with friendships in his life, and it's forever changed his future.  Brian makes friends easily, but he encouraged the students to surround themselves with people who would protect them from harm.  We know that unforeseen occurrences befall us all, but we can surround ourselves with the right kinds of people in life.  People who become friends, and who protect us from opportunists.  He told the students to be a good brother, sister, daughter, son, friend.  The students and teachers lined up to meet him afterward.  He was then whisked away to the teachers lounge for coffee and scones.  The school want him to address the whole student body soon.  What an honor.  They're all mad about him, and are diligently fund raising for one of "their own".  It's lovely.  My heart swells with pride. 

In other news: my Mother's brother, Dave Clancy, passed away on Sunday.  I didn't have the pleasure of knowing him well, but my Mother said "he was a gentle man".  As far as I'm concerned, that's golden. I felt a particular kind of sadness for my Mother loosing her brother.  We came way too close to that ourselves.  I only wish I'd known Dave Clancy.  It's terrible to be away from home when all you want to do is throw your arms around someone and have a good cry. I don't want to throw my arms around any random person, and bawl all over them mind you.  I'm particular who I share my runny nose with. My cousin Liz, from NY, sent me facebook pictures of the post- wake trip to the pub (as it was happening). The marvels of modern technology.  Far from the days when you'd have to wait for the postman to bring a letter with all the details. Typical Irish crowd -  mourning in a pub is just a part of it all.  The act of celebrating the life lived is sad but it's also a necessary part of the mourning process.  If you didn't do that, you'd forever be trying to figure out what the blazes was missing. Dave was a Guinness man.  I'm betting the Guinness stocks just went through the roof in the Limerick area.  I raised my glass to Dave Clancy more than once since Sunday.  "Cheers".  xx

As far as I know, there's nothing else to report.  Thank God.  That's enough "excitement" for a while. 

Thank you all for your love and support.  We would be lost without each and every one of you.  The email update list has grown, and while I'm not exactly sure who reads these updates, I suspect it's quiet a few.  A big kiss, hug and squeeze to you all.  For those of you who hit "reply", I read Brian your lovely emails. 


Much love,

Hogan Family  xx

P.S.  If you'd like to send Brian a note, here's the address:

82 Russell Court,
Ballykeefe, Limerick
Ireland

www.iheartbrian.org

 

This picture is of Brian dressed as Amy Winehouse.  I'm pretty sure this wasn't the kind of "rehab" he had in mind!  Great legs!

Latest update & pic of Brian

Below is the latest update on our boy, Brian! Also, just wanted to let you know that for those donors due to receive a copy of "Found Wanting," your book was mailed today! Sorry for the delay (had to wait for a new shipment of books and the mail is slow these days with winter storms galore). Hope you enjoy! Now, on to Brian...

--------------------------------

2011.  Really?  Where does the time go?  I looked back at the first update of 2010, where I promised to keep it short and sweet.  I did. I'm promising the same for this first update of 2011.  Let's see how I do! :)

The last update was pretty exciting, so this one won't be nearly as good, but when it comes to Brian, we're excited about his progress every day.  He's incredible.  I called him yesterday, and he was on the exercise bike.  I'm pretty sure if they clocked him, he'd have biked all the way from Limerick to Australia by now!

We're still waiting on the call from LifeSource, to let us know they've approved the donor cells.  Then, we have 3 weeks to get him into the US.  I'm pretty sure we won't tell him he's getting on a plane until he's about to board, because he gets wild with excitement, and the phones will ring non-stop!  

When I look back at what Brian has accomplished, I'm amazed.  With reports from Siobhan, Nevis, Shane, Jonathan, Mam & Dad, and of course all the fabulous friends and extended family we have, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude.  Everyone just loves visiting him.  He's such a pleasure (most of the time)!  Poor sweetheart had to have his big toenail removed a few weeks ago.  It was ingrown, and he was in pain.  I called Dad to see how it all went down, and Brian did really well.  He didn't feel any pain, and he got antibiotics immediately to avoid the risk of infection.  He said "my toe feels fabulous"!  

If you'd like to drop him a note, he would love it.  There are times when he's bored, and he has someone read and re-read letters and cards.  Sometimes, it's like it's his first time hearing a letter, so his reaction is wonderful, again and again!   I suppose if there is a silver lining to his brain injury, it's that.  

Waiting is the biggest challenge right now.  If you can call or write, he would really appreciate it.  His lovely singing voice is getting better and better, and if you ask, he'll prove it!

The next email won't be too far behind (hopefully).  It should carry good news about Brian's pending visit to New Orleans, Louisiana!

Here's Brian's address:  Make sure you write to Brian Hogan Jr. (my Dad is Brian Hogan Sr.)

82 Russell Court

Ballykeefe,

Limerick

Ireland

His phone number is: 087-655-4411 (that's if you're calling within Ireland).  If you're calling from the US: 011-353-87-544-4411.  If you're calling from the UK, I'm not sure of the codes, but you'll be adding your codes, dropping "0", and using 87-655-4411

Phew!

Thanks for everything.  You're all "on the team", as Brian says!

Much love,

Hogan Family xx

P.S.  This is a picture of one miracle holding Bonnie Mai, another miracle!

Grainne Hogan Fitzmorris Reveals the Big Secret: "The Big Easy!"

Hello Friends, and Family!

We're close to the end of 2010 (thank God), and this update is once again over due.  There doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day!  So, the exciting news is...... Brian will be coming State Side (USA) for his Stem Cell Treatment.  In ALL the research we did (and there was tons), we always leaned towards Stem Cell Facilities that advertise; China, Germany, South America.  We always did a search for "stem cell treatment for ONA (optic nerve atrophy), and we were guided in the directions of the countries above.  One day, a friend of mine (who's a nurse) said "G, I work with a girl, who's possibly having Stem Cell Treatment in Covington".  Covington is a pretty small town, about 35 minutes drive from New Orleans, Louisiana (where I live).  I had heard that TCA or Lifesource existed, but I thought it was just research.  WRONG!  If you go to www.tcaway.com, you'll find out that they are a research facility, but they're also a treatment facility.  


I called immediately, and spoke to Erica.  Erica was so incredibly in tune to what our needs, hopes and aspirations were for Brian (and the rest of us, of course), that I silently cried throughout the conversation.  The facility in Covington is the ONLY facility in the world with the technology to take either your own, or donor stem cells, incubate them, and multiply them to upwards of 50 - 100 million stem cells.  China was guaranteeing upwards of 5 million cells (which seems like a lot), but when you compare it to between 50, and 100 million, there's absolutely no way we're taking "the kid" to China.  As you can imagine, we've all kept it on the down low, because when Brian gets something in his head, he's relentless.  Sean and I made an appointment to visit Lifesource, and I'm pretty sure neither of us slept Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday night.  Our 45 minute journey across Lake Pontchartrain (the longest bridge over water in the world, at 24 miles) seemed never ending.  We've driven that bridge hundreds of times, but this time was different.  We barely spoke to each other (a miracle in itself, if you know me).  I think I was holding my breath for 24 miles.  You know those "special days" when you remember every single detail?  I remember what I was wearing, what purse I was carrying.  I remember how my heels hurt, but I didn't care.  I remember thinking "here we are, and what if Dr. Lasala doesn't like us".  "What if he says "all the way from Ireland, that's a long way to travel for a maybe".  I had practiced all the "conversation stoppers".  I practiced crying (because that's so hard these past months!!!).  I thought, "I'll start crying, and there's no way he'll say "no" to us".  Sean thought I was crazy (or, crazier).


I'd never met Erica before, but when I did, I hugged her like she was my best friend.  She invited us into a room with an examination table, a sink, and a couple of random chairs.  We chatted a little about the weather, and then she said "Dr. Lasala is running about 10 minutes behind, so sit tight".  Sit tight?  I would have sat on a bed of nails, ALL day, just for the opportunity to plead our case.  When Dr. Lasala entered the room, he smiled. Sean and I both stood up, and introduced ourselves.  He was shorter than I anticipated.  I suppose because I'd heard so many good things about him, and our research had always, always been so impressive, that I expected him to be 8 feet tall.  His smile was genuine, and when he sat down, I immediately felt like I was going to cry.  Not because things didn't look so positive, but because I knew he was settling in for a conversation.  In the 20 minute meeting, he never once said "your brother", or "the patient".  He always said "Brian".  You have no idea how important that was to us.  When people (some of them, friends) say "how's your brother", I just want to scream "his name is Brian" (like everyone in the world should know about this incredible boy).  Silly, I  know.  Dr. Lasala was fascinating.  He could tell we had researched Stem Cells.  He knew we knew the job of Stem Cells, and what their potential was.  I could tell he appreciated how much we studied their value to our bodies.  


We told Dr. Lasala that we were willing to give anything a try, not once, but multiple times, because we knew that there were no guarantees.  He smiled when we said "you'll love Brian, he's amazing", and he said "of course".  He always said things like "this is what we'll do", "this is how we'll infuse Brian", "Brian won't be in any pain", etc., etc.  So, from the beginning, we knew Dr. Lasala wanted to help.  He had a difficult time connecting Brian's loss of eyesight with Brian's injury, so he spoke to us about consulting with a Neurological Ophthalmologist, who's had success with treating children with Optic Nerve Atrophy, using Stem Cells.  Who knows what she might be able to do for Brian.  He looked at Brian's initial report (from the morning he was admitted to A&E, in Queens Medical, Nottingham).  He said "it's a miracle Brian is with us".  His injury was so severe, that it was almost unbelievable he didn't die.  We talked to Dr. Lasala about how fit Brian was. He said "Brian is determined, no?".  "YES", we said.  Anyone who knows Brian knows that to be true!


When Dr. Lasala opened the door to leave, I wanted to hug him, but I was afraid he'd think I was a freak, so I held back.  Erica had a big smile on her face, because secretly she knew Dr. Lasala was interested in helping Brian.  She couldn't tell me that prior to the meeting, but she had a good feeling.  I hugged her instead!  


Nevis knew we were meeting with Dr. Lasala, because I needed her to get all Brian's medical documents, and medication lists.  Jonathan knew just the day before, because he sent me a desperate email about how we had to hurry up and take Brian to China, because he was just so heartbroken, and felt helpless.  I had to let him in on the "secret", just to calm him down.  Shane knew because he was going on a much needed holiday to India, and he called me a couple of days before take off, to say he was feeling so guilty for leaving Brian, that he was considering canceling his holiday.  I had to tell him something good.


Sean and I left Lifesource after about 2 hours.  The sun was shining, and there was a little breeze, and I thought "if anyone can help Brian, it's Dr. Lasala, and this team".  I felt warm and fuzzy all over!


Then, started the phone calls, the tears, the story, the joy, the anticipation!  Telling my father was one of the greatest joys I've ever experienced.  Hearing Nevis tell my mother in the background, was another great joy.  It's all still a "maybe", but it's so much more positive than China.  Don't get me wrong, the facility in China has helped thousands of people, but it's not the right place for Brian right now.  We've found facilities in South America, Germany, Russia.  But Lifesource is the ONLY facility with the technology to grow the cells to such an incredibly large quantity.  The more, the merrier!  


So, Brian will be coming to New Orleans again.  He loves New Orleans.  He spent a summer with me in 1997, and then came here again in 2005, when I took him to see his idol, Aretha Franklin (another great joy for me).  What a fabulous night at the Super Dome.  Little did we know, Hurricane Katrina would rip New Orleans apart just 2 months later, and I would lose everything materially.  Brian mourned for the loss of my little house, and my "things".  He cried at the idea that my beloved City was in tatters, but he sent me a CD of Annie Lennox "I've Got A Life", and wrote the loveliest note about coming out of the ashes, and moving forward.  I see that note every day, and now it reminds me of Brian.


Brian is on the schedule for an infusion, but it may take until the end of January, or some time in February.  I'm busy getting my house ready for the onset!  It's been a wild ride!  


For now, Brian is busy getting himself healthy.  He's using the exercise bike at least once a day.  He said "when you work out, the blood flows through your body much faster, and that will really help me with the Stem Cells".  He's so smart it's ridiculous!


So, that's the big "secret".  No longer a secret now, of course!  


While it won't be as expensive for Brian to come to the US (because I live here), the treatment, and travel will be just as costly.  To all of you who have donated (time, money, etc., etc.), THANK YOU!  Brian is worth every single penny.  We're always overwhelmed by your generosity!  We may not tell you how much we appreciate you're time, effort, resources, but we think about it in our sleepless nights, in our drives to work, in our quiet times, when nobody sees us pray to keep going.  So, "THANK YOU" all.


If you think of a good fund-raising event, let me know, and I'll put it on Brian's website - www.iheartbrian.org.  Every single penny is accounted for (thank you, Ciara).  Nevis is the contact person in Limerick, but you can email, call, or Facebook me too.  The latest fund-raising information (and success stories) are on Brian's website, so don't miss those.  If you want to drop Brian a note, you can mail it to: 82 Russell Court, Ballykeefe.  Limerick. Ireland.  He would love to get "fan mail".


Brian can't see, but in his "minds eye", he see's everything.  Last week he said; "when I can see again, I'm never turning the lights on".  Really?  You're killing us, kid!


My family is grateful every day for even the opportunity to thank you ALL.


Much Love,


Hogan Family xxxx

And many thanks to Brians latest donors!

Robert C., Bondi, NSW, Australia - $30.00

Amy F., Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, UK - $20.00

Mark O., Hove, UK - $20.00

G. & E. Talbot (Mrs. Talbot's Tasty Foods) Metairie, La., USA - $75.00

Latest Update from Nevis Hogan!

To everyone who has donated via this website, your donations are HUGELY appreciated. Brian's sister Nevis contacted me with some others to whom highest accolades must go, who have arranged fund-raisers for Brian on their own also! Hi Nevis here! A lot of money has been donated from here if you could mention them on the blog? Geraldine Wallace and Frances Moylan raised 1000 euro. Joanne Fitzgerald and Sharon O'Flaherty and all their friends who raised over 3000 euro from a skydive. NRG Fitness in Cork raised 700 euro in a 16 mile run to Cobh from Cork City. Lynda Geary Zebo who ran a coffee morning in Cork; Elaine McKeon from Cork who raised 1000 euro and who has been a fantastic support to Brian and introduced us to NRG Fitness. Brian's secondary school have to date raised over 2000 euro and are continuing to raise funds. Bank Of Ireland Roxboro Limerick ran a coffee morning two weeks ago. To all and others I may have forgotten to mention Thank you thank you! Brian's loving your book! Xx To everyone, our deepest gratitude! I can tell you that it won't be long before all your generous contributions of time, money and heartfelt effort will be put to good use for Brian! Stay tuned, and be sure to pass this website on to your friends! And don't forget - till the end of the year, all donors contributing $30 or more get a free copy of "Found Wanting"!

More progress!

Many thanks for our most recent donors (well, all our donors)! Brian is doing well, and looking forward to his stem cell therapy. Still can't give you all the details, but there's big stuff in the works - and all thanks goes to the generous donations from folks who have worked so hard on Brian's fund-raisers and those who have donated through this website! You are the ones who are making a real difference in Brian's future.

One thing that's transpired which is a bit of a shame is the lack of support from the English government. Brian had been living and working in Nottingham, U.K. for nine years when this tragedy occurred, paying taxes and contributing to the country's welfare. However, he has not received one penny of disability or unemployment payment from them! That makes your donations all the more important to him and his family. 

Brian would love to hear from you. I just sent him an audio copy of my recent book to listen to.You can listen to it for free also by clicking here. http://www.bookrix.com/_mybook-seanhfitz_1292315067.5472478867 Chat with Brian about it!

A huge thank you to:

Mark B. (second time donor!), Sheffield, UK - $25.00 

Michael T., Nottingham, UK - $442.00 

Emily T., Nottingham, UK - $10.00

Mark R. (second time donor!), New Orleans, La., USA - $22.22

Rebecca M., Nottingham, UK - $150.00

And as I stated in my previous post - all donors contributing $30.00 or more get a free copy of "Found Wanting"! Michael T., Rebecca M., and Mark B. - expect it in the mail! Thanks and enjoy!

Big things happening!

First off, Brian and his family want to express a HUGE thank you to Mark Bowen for his nighttime bungee jump in Brian's honor! His daredevil feat raised $600.00 towards Brian's treatment! You didn't have to do it, but you did! Many thanks!

Second, I can't tell you all the details right now (it's still sort of secret) but keep watching this space for big news about Brian and his future plans! Let's just say good stuff is in the works! But toward that end, we need to raise at least $10,000 more! Yes, we have a goal! I'll fill you in soon, but for the moment, spread the word to anyone you can! Personal donations, corporate sponsorships, government grants are ALL welcome! If you can send word of this website and Brian's situation to just one or two people, it will help enormously for Brian's stem cell therapy! And remember, stem cells are the ONLY hope for Brian right now. Every bit of medical wisdom we've been able to glean (and that's a lot!) offers no other option for his conditions. 

Brian is doing well. He remains in good spirits and is solely focused on getting better! Recently I published a book titled "Found Wanting" about a serial-killer paramedic (yes, it's fiction). I'm in the process of recording it as an audio book for Brian to listen to. He's been talking about it to everyone! 

So, speaking of my book, here's the deal: For every donation through this website for $30 (US) or more from now till the end of the year, you will receive a FREE copy of "Found Wanting"! Just make sure you include your address in the PayPal donation form so I know where to send it! And remember - ALL of Brian's contributions go to him; I'm sending you a copy of my book at MY OWN expense! None of your donation will be used to "buy" a copy. What a great deal! And don't feel bad for me, I'm happy to do it for Brian - his treatment is foremost in our minds right now! (If you need to convert your local currency to US dollars [PayPal can be persnickety], there's a converter way down at the bottom of this page.)

That being said, again a huge thank you to:

Mark B, Sheffield UK - $600.00

Matthew A, Nottingham, UK - $50.00

All the best to everyone, and thanks!

-Sean Fitzmorris

A big thanks to our fund-raisers in Ireland!

Brian's sister Nevis Hogan wanted to pass along enormous thanks to all her colleagues at Eircom for raising €150 for Brian and to Ciara Storan Chawke for raising €175 in the Limerick mini-marathon! Your generosity and help is is apppreciated more than you can know!


Brian is doing well, home to Limerick for a while after a stay in Dun Laoghaire for some intensive physical therapy! There's stuff in the works, but more details to come on that later. In the meantime, keep watching this space, and tell everyone you can about it! Click the "Tweet this page" link on the right to spread the work quickly and easily on Twitter!

Fwd: Jumping for Brian (In The Dark)!

Hi!

Brian's good friend, Mark Bowen is doing a sponsored bungee jump to help raise funding for Brian's upcoming Stem Cell Treatment.  The big day is October 2, and the jump takes place at MAGNA, in Sheffield.  Oh, and it's in the dark! 

If you'd like to sponsor Mark, please do so, by sending him an email at markbowen1@me.com

You can also donate by clicking the "DONATE" button! Make sure you reference the donation "Bungee Jump".  We'll be sure to post your name in lights (but only if you want us to)!  As soon as I get photographs from the event, I'll put them on Brian's Facebook, and on Brian's website!

What a great opportunity to support Brian's cause.  I love my brother, but I'm scared of bungee jumping, and the dark!  There would have to be a good shot of Irish Whiskey before and after the jump for me! 

Thanks so much to Mark and his family! 

Much love,

Hogan Family

Quick thank you...

Make sure you read the latest update from Brian's sister Grainne below! Also, many thanks to Brian's latest donors!

Philip T, Leicester UK $100.00

Ingrid H, Franklinton, La, US $50.00

Thanks so much for your generosity!

Brian Hogan Jr. Update - September 14, 2010 "Big Spender".

 "Big Spender".

Hello, Family & Friends!

I figured today would be a good day to send an update on Brian, because he's having a good day today.  Last week was not so good for him, which, in turn, made it not so good for the rest of us.  He was inconsolable all week long. He cried from one end of the week to the other.  Nothing really made him happy.  He kept saying "I just miss me".  Then he said "mammy, I'm broken - can you fix me".  Talk about breaking your heart wide open, and then throwing hot coals on top of it.  I thought last week would never end.  Thankfully, it did.  The whole family, sans myself, spent time with him last week, so I know it wasn't all bad. 

Dad gave him 10 Euros, because he hasn't had/needed money for anything, but he mentioned how he was a little embarrassed about not being able to at least offer to pay for coffee or a pastry (like we would let him pay for anything), so he had his whopping 10 Euros.  Hey, Big Spender!  I wonder if we should have offered him money early last week!  We would have cleared our bank accounts into his hands, if we thought it would have made a difference.  

Today, he told me the story of how he had everyone laughing and singing in the cooking class.  He said a woman was dancing and laughing so much, her prosthetic leg fell off, whizzed passed his ear, and hit the wall.  Now, the accuracy of that story has still to be determined, but he got so much pleasure out of telling it, that it hardly matters if it is in fact true.  He made "Irish soda bread, from the Avoca Cook Book", and had a warm slice of it, topped with cheese.  He said it was "fabulous".  I would have given anything to have shared a slice with him.  Although, Brian isn't the best at sharing his food.  He sometimes eats like it's his last meal.   I wonder if it has anything to do with being in a coma.  "Food for thought", pardon the pun!

He also spoke about a Physical Therapist, who did a session with him, and how she explained what every muscle did while she was manipulating it. He was impressed with her dedication.  He's like that himself, really. If you get him on the topic of something he enjoys; gardening, cooking, renovating, being a Quantity Surveyor, he can explain anything in 3D.  He's incredibly descriptive, and always was.  I remember hearing Brian laughing as he read "All Creatures Great & Small", and he would repeat the stories in such detail, that you really thought you were watching the Vet deliver a calf!

Recently, the family took a trip to Nottingham to box up Brian's house.  The Letting Agent found two lovely girls to rent Campbell Grove.  According to Dad, there was so much stuff in the house, that it was almost impossible to get everything boxed up in 3 days.  Thanks to Ann, and Joan, Vijay, Arun, and Pam, it was all done.  Special thanks to "big brother, John" for storing some of Brian's things until we can pick them up.  We would have been lost without all of you.  It was hard to imagine all of Brian's lovely things going into boxes.  It was harder to imagine the house full of his belongings, but without him in it.  Who's kidding who, it's all hard!

If you'd like to visit him, go for it.  Prepare to cry with laughter (save the real tears for when you leave, because he senses everything).  If you'd like to call him, his phone number is 087-655-4411.  If you call from the US, he's 6 hours ahead, and the number is 011-353-87-6554411.  If you're calling from the UK, the number will be 0044-87-655-4411.  He would love a quick "hello".  He's sure to tell you the same story a couple of times, but if you react like it's the first time around, he'll be thrilled with you!

Intense rehab is really good for Brian, but he does get lonely.  To wake up 4 months after a night out, and not be able to see, or move, must be awful.  Knowing that you all care for Brian so much, keeps him going, even through the tough times.  In some ways, things haven't really become easier.  We still need a little push now and then.  My parents & brother's & sisters are simply amazing.  But, they'll tell you themselves, they get days when it's easier to just stay in bed.  But, Brian doesn't get that luxury, so they keep going.  We have friends, and family that experience the highs and lows with us, and without all of you, this would be close to impossible.  So "thank you".

I promise that the next update will be shortly behind this one.  

Take good care of yourselves.  We're grateful for you every day.

Much love, and gratitude,

Hogan Family; Brian, Phil, Siobhan, Grainne (me), Nevis, Brian (the hero), Jonathan, & last, but not least, Shane!

xxxxxxxx

Remember, you can find Brian at www.iheartbrian.org, or www.iheartbrian.com, or www.iheartbrian.net.  He's like Visa; Everywhere!

P.S.  One picture is of Brian and Jonathan taking a nap.  We keep Brian on the inside, in case he decides to roll off!  The other picture was taken in Ann & John's back yard, on a lovely, sunny, June day.  It was a magic day, with lovely friends.  XX

Brian's New Internet Presence!

Whenever you're around Brian, his presence tends to be the center of attention, and it is never undeserved. Therefore it's fitting that Brian have even more of a presence on the internet. Starting today, you can get to this page simply by typing "iheartbrian" into your web browser address bar! Brian now has the following domains:

http://iheartbrian.org

http://iheartbrian.net

http://iheartbrian.com

This will make it easier to find Brian online, especially by search engines like Google & Yahoo. More presence means more traffic and hopefully more donations for Brian to help him regain his vision! Brian and his family are planning on going to Qingdao, China for his stem cell therapy in January, 2011. He needs as much support as you can muster! Remember, even if you can't donate, you can always forward this page to others and get the word out! And now you can do it using any of the new web addresses above!

Speaking of donations, a huge thank you to Brian's latest donors! 

Renee P, Barrington, IL, USA - $50.00

Jackie S, Limerick, Ireland - $20.00

Sheila K, Madisonville, LA, USA - $50.00

Maureen O, Greenlawn, NY, USA - $200.00

Many heartfelt thanks for your generosity! 

Keep spreading the word!

Brian Hogan Jr. - Update - "On The Road Again" August 17, 2010

Friends and Family,

I just realized I need to update everyone on "the kid"!  Ok, I tell a lie, I realized it last week, but last week was crazy, so I put it off until now. 

Brian had a little seizure last Sunday, August 8^th.  He was running a fever, and his temperature spiked really quickly, causing him to have a "febrile" seizure.  That just means it was temperature related.  With a brain injury, it's important to avoid fever, so we'll know the next time!  Poor Jonathan was driving Brian at the time, and he got a really bad scare, but they're both doing well now!

Brian spent a couple of hours in the Emergency Room, but was released once they figured out he had a mild chest infection.  From what I hear, he was quiet the "pepper" in there, so I'm sure they were only too happy to release him!  Shane was brave enough to call me and tell me what happened.  You know when the conversation starts with a full disclosure - "everything is fine now, but Brian spent the last couple of hours in the ER", that your day is completely turned upside down.  I always say to my family; "I'm just a day way, if I have to come home".  Look, if you're not within 10 minutes of where you want to be in an emergency situation, you're just too far away. 

Several weeks ago, Brian went to Dun Laoghaire (a little outside Dublin), to be evaluated for intense rehabilitation.  The facility is where Brian would have gone, had his attack occurred in Ireland.  They were really pleased with his rehab in Limerick, so basically turned him down as an in-patient.  It was neither good, nor bad news, just a little disappointing.  Then, Friday, my parents received a letter from Dun Laoghaire, telling them that "Brian was accepted to their in-patient rehabilitation facility", and that they should have him there by Monday (yesterday).  Talk about roller coasters of emotion!

If there's one thing that Brian is, it's determined.  Hard work never scared Brian.  He could turn his hand at anything, and if something needed to get done, Brian would always figure out a way to do it.  So, this opportunity is a fantastic one.  He will be kept busy from one end of the day to the next with all types of therapies.  We're thrilled, but a little apprehensive at the same time.  Right now, Brian is only 20 minutes from family, at any given moment.  Dun Laoghaire is 2 hours away.  Fortunately, we have friends who don't live too far from where he'll be, so he'll be kept busy.  From everything we hear, he'll be in bed early, and asleep early, due to all the workouts!  Maybe he'll stop calling me at 6, 7, 8am (that's 12, 1, 2am US time) for a "chat".  When the phone rings in the middle of the night, it's enough to scare 10lbs off your body.  And you can't pretend to be anything less than thrilled.  One night, he had me singing "Wild Thing" at 2am.  I hope the neighbors didn't hear it!

By now, most of you know that we've pretty much settled on China for Brian's Stem Cell Treatment.  We've researched all the options, and the facility in China is where we're heading.  The facility comes highly recommended by a several people.  The facility has been written about in the well respected Medical Journals, so we're confident this is the right place for him to go. Of course, there are no guarantees, but we're going to try everything we can.  You can keep an "eye" on Brian through his blog at http://helpbrian.blogspot.com for additional updates too.  Please feel free to pass this update to anyone and everyone.  Awareness is key, and every contribution, no matter how small, is fantastic.

Here's a link to the website for Dun Laoghaire: http://www.nrh.ie

I'm not sure of all the visiting times, but I know that during the week, they start at 6pm, and go to 9pm.  Brian gets tired in the evenings, so if he falls asleep on you, don't be offended!  It'll be your chance to "escape", and visit again!  The weekends are more open, but I'm not too sure of the times.  I couldn't find them on the website, but you can call the facility if you'd like to know for sure. 

If you'd like to send Brian a card or letter, you can send it to the following address:

National Rehabilitation Hospital,
Rochestown Avenue,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin,
Ireland.

Brian would absolutely love to hear from you.  "Fan mail" has slowed down, but now that he's away from home, this is your chance to send him a little encouragement!  Thanks in advance!

We're not done with our fundraising, of course.  We would love to hear your ideas, if you've had success with fundraising in the past.  If you have any ideas, shoot them my way. 

Thanks to every single one of you for your love and support.  The first year was tough, and we're hoping it was the toughest, but we don't know what's around the corner for "the kid"!

I promise I will send another update soon. 

Much love to all our friends & family, old and new!

Hogan Family xx

China Bound

Well, after much deliberation, Brian & his family have decided on a treatment center for his stem cell therapy! It's Beike Biotech in Quindao, China. He's planning to go there in January, 2011 for a six-week stay for his therapy, which will involve six to eight injections of stem cells. 

Why Beike? Despite many warnings of stem cell scams in China, this facility comes with a good reputation, well respected in the medical community. There is also the testimony of fellow Irish Valerie Dolan, who also suffered from optic nerve atrophy and had good results from Beike. No one expects everything to be perfect after his therapy; after all, Brian does have other issues involving his brain trauma, namely his difficulty moving his left side. But we have high hopes that some restoration of his sight will help motivate him to continue progressing with the rest of his therapy. 

Brian spends at least an hour a day on the cycle trainer at Beech Lodge. He is able to travel around a bit in the car and of course has a wonderful singalong with the radio. And of course, the stories. He keeps everyone in stitches with his many hilarious stories and jokes! 

As you can imagine, travel to China from Ireland won't be cheap. Neither will the treatment, at $30,000. But now that we have a definite goal, your donations mean more now than ever! Please, if you can make a donation, do so - no matter how small or large! Even if you can't donate, forward this page to anyone you can. Spread the word!

Speaking of donations, many thanks to Brian's latest donors:

Julie F., Staffordshire, UK - $50.00

Katrina W., Cardiff, UK - $15.00

Martina A., Ballingarry, Ireland - $20.00

Christine E., Sheffield, UK - $5.00

Amy F. Staffordshire, UK - $40.00

Many thanks to each of you that have contributed to the restoration of Brian's sight! Keep spreading the word! 

Decision time!

It's been a little while since updating. We've been busy researching various stem cell treatment centers for Brian. We're probably going to try to get Brian his treatment and worry about paying for it later. This means that your donations will be more important than ever! It's like jumping into a pool without knowing if there's water in it! 

We've just about narrowed it down to three places - China, USA or Dominican Republic. All will be a difficult trip for Brian, and all will cost a minimum of $30,000 just for the therapy, not including transportation and accommodations. 

So far this website has raised about $2000.00 for Brian. You can help him right now by making a donation, however large or small! I spoke with Brian the other day and he was "flying high" with the news that his treatment would not be as expensive as we first thought and that results may conceivably be noticed within a few days of treatment! Given that this talented, brilliant young man has had his life turned inside out by being confined to a wheelchair and completely unable to see, you can imagine how any good news is a beacon of hope! You can make that beacon shine brighter by donating! Even if you cannot donate, you can spread the word on Twitter, Facebook, Stumbleupon or any way you can think of. Use the links on the right-hand side of the page to let others know that they can help help too!

Thanks to all who have already given so generously! Let's keep up the good work!

Slowly but surely... Brian's first year

It's hard to believe, but it's been one year ago today (19 July) that Brian was first injured. He's made some amazing progress. If you've listened to him singing in the YouTube videos (http://to.ly/5zjm and http://to.ly/5zjo), you know this firsthand. But he has a long way to go. Your support, whether it's through donations, or visits to Brian and his family or just keeping up with this blog is enormously appreciated and keeps Brian and his family going day by day.

Research for Brian's treatment is going slowly, but steadily. I've gotten several emails and phone calls from both facilities and patients who have received stem-cell therapy. Several different people I've talked too have been most helpful and hopeful for Brian's recovery. Many thanks to all who have responded!

Brian has yet to see the Neuro-Ophthalmologist in Dun Laoghaire, so once that happens, we'll be in a better position to know exactly where to turn next! 

Some of the interesting things I've found out:

It may not necessary to go all the way to India. Promising results might be as close as Europe or North America!

One patient's father said treatment for his son cost around $30,000 - so we may be much closer to getting Brian's therapy than we thought! 

Based on others' experiences with stem cells, results might begin to be noticed within just a few days of treatment!

Still, Brian has a long way to go. Below is part of Grainne's (Brian's sister) email update on Brian. If you'd like to receive Grainne's updates in your own email, just let me know and I'll forward your address on to her.

And last but not least - many, many thanks to Brian's latest donors! 

Rob P, Deventer, the Netherlands $10.00

Beverly C, New Orleans, La. $26.00

Lea B, Nottinghamshire, UK $75.00

Here's Grainne's update:

Dear Family & Friends,

It's hard to believe that today, July 19, 2010, is the first anniversary of Brian's attack.  We've all come so far, and we've watched Brian come even further.  Getting a phone call the morning after Brian's attack is something you just never prepare yourself for.  When you live away from "home", you always dread the phone ringing early in the morning, but nothing prepares you for bad news – nothing.  I dreaded today, and I dread tomorrow, but a year has flown by. For that, we're all grateful!

Brian has been in Ireland since May 8, and he's doing well in so many ways.  I spent the last two weeks in June with him, and he's amazing.  He's now engaged in Physical Therapy 4 times a week, but that's not enough for Brian; he uses the bike pedals at Beech Lodge, for over an hour every day.  He's involved in several types of therapy, including music therapy.  This is his favorite one, as most of you know he's a huge music fan.  Brian had a tracheotomy for over 3 months, so his voice has changed, but it hasn't stopped him singing. 

As time goes on, we're hearing more and more about the severity of Brian's initial injury.  He suffered several serious strokes in the early stages of injury, which is the reason for his left side paralysis.  The "experts" said, "he'll never have use of his left side again, but you should see him ride those pedals!  He's working hard on his upper left side too, but it's taking a while. 

While I was in Ireland, we hosted a Fundraiser for Brian.  This was strongly encouraged by media, and friends, as a way for people to show their support for Brian.  We're knee deep in research for Stem Cell treatment, but there are so many places, and with every success story, there are some horror stories, so we're not about to jump into anything without knowing as much as possible.  Brian's blindness is the worst for him (and us, of course).  Not a day goes by when he doesn't say, "do you think I'll ever see again"?  It's like someone stabbing you with a spoon. 

The Fundraiser was a blast.  We had planned for about 200 attendees, but we're pretty sure the turn out was more like 450 to 500! What a great night!  Of course, Brian stole the show, over and over.  To be honest, the turnout was a true testament to my parents.  If you knew how much they do every single day, you would wonder how it was at all possible.  My whole family works hard every day at taking care of Brian, but my parents are responsible for more than I can begin to explain.

Dealing with the paperwork side of Brian's condition is a nightmare.  Thought Brian lived and worked in the UK for over 9 years, the UK denied Brian any type of disability.  We couldn't even get Brian into the Irish system until he was physically in the country, so we had to start the process in May, and it's only now starting to come together.  We're a long way from getting it done, but it's a constant flow of paperwork after paperwork, after phone call, after meeting. 

We've set up a blog for Brian, so we'll be putting these updates on there. It's a blog that you can comment if you'd like.  Feel free to forward the link to your friends, or you can put it on your facebook or twitter, as a way to show support for Brian, and his ongoing rehab. 

Now, more than ever, Brian would love to hear from you.  He's having a really tough time, and it's always good for him to hear words of encouragement.  Even if you don't know Brian, you can email, or comment.  We all have something to say, so if you want to say something – come on, say it!  Just because Brian is no longer in England, it doesn't mean that he doesn't miss it.  Nottingham is where Brian chose to live.  He fell in love with Nottingham, and built his whole life there.  Out of sight, out of mind, is easy for us, but for Brian, he's trapped inside his own body and mind right now, so if you can take the time to write a few words of encouragement – thank you, thank you.

If you'd like to use the "donate" button on Brian's blog page, go right ahead.  Every single penny goes into Brian's Trust account, and it's all for Brian's medical care.  Stem Cell treatment is not covered by Brian's insurance, but we're not about to tell him "sorry, we can't afford to try EVERYTHING possible to give you your eyesight", so if you can help, go for it! 

I'll keep the updates coming.  They're a little less frequent, but it's only because progress is slow.  It's slow, yet steady, and moving in the right direction, and that's what matters. 

From my very grateful family to you and yours – thank you, thank you.

Much love,

Brian Sr., Phil, Siobhan, Grainne, Nevis, Brian Jr., Jonathan, and Shane.  xxx

Spreading the word!

Many thanks to Dr. Alan Glazier (@eyeinfo on Twitter) for helping to spread the word on his website, eyeinfo.wordpress.com! He's put up this special post on his blog dedicated to Brian and the research we've been doing to get the particulars about stem cell treatment! It's people like this and all of you reading this page that will help Brian and others like him to regain their vision and live a more normal life after such debilitating injuries.

On behalf of the Hogan family, myself and especially Brian Hogan, Jr. - Thank you, Dr. Glazier!

The work continues!

Spent the last couple days researching stem cell therapy. We already know the basics of what is involved, the difficult part has been trying to find a facility or hospital that actually performs the procedure. 

If you're reading this post and you are involved in stem cell treatment, or you have had stem cell treatment yourself, I'd love to hear from you! Brian has an appointment in Dun Laoghaire this month with a Neuro-Ophthamologist, so I sure some of our questions might be answered then, but if not, then Brian needs your help with information!

Who performs stem cell treatment for optic nerve atrophy? Where will Brian need to go to get it? How much does it cost? What is the most likely outcome for Brian? How many people have been treated and what was their outcome? How can we contact these people and facilities?

Post your replies in the comments, or feel free to email me at sfitzmorris@gmail.com.

Also, much gratitude to Brian's latest benefactors:

Chris P, New Orleans, LA $50.00

Richard of sturtle.com for posting this fantastic article about Brian and spreading the word! (@sturtledotcom on Twitter)

Thanks very much! And if you have any info on the specifics of stem cell therapy mentioned above, email me or post in the comments!

Another Treat from Our Man Brian! To the Moon

A Special Treat: Preacher Man