Brian's Wave
Gifts for children who have lost a parent or grandparent.
Please have verification materials ready at the time of submission. Verification materials must show the loss of the family member with the child's relationship named in the obituary or other. If you cannot verify the loss and relationship through an obituary, birth certificate, or other then please come back and apply when you have that information.
*Submission are closed Nov. 1 - Jan. 15 each year.
Behind the Name
On Saturday, September 19, 2026 Brian, lover of the ocean, was participating in a 30 mile ocean paddle charity event from Avalon, Catalina to Newport Beach, California. Brian had completed all of the qualifiers including a 16 mile paddle in preparation for the event. On the morning of the event, during a water break 10 miles into the paddle, Brian lost consciousness and his pulse. Emergency personnel responded immediately to resuscitate him.
Despite every valiant effort made by the emergency responders in the water, on the shore, and in the hospital, Brian did not survive. He leaves behind his wife, his five year old daughter, and his two year old son. Brian was 37 years old.
Brian is also Charlie's uncle. The two of them carry a special bond. We call this program Brian's Wave to pay homage to Brian and the ocean he loves and to remind us that oftentimes gifts are our loved ones waving to us.
Brian with his wife and children
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2026, Wyoming
Uncle Brian with Charlie
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2017, Hawaii
