Bryzon was a vibrant 15-year-old who thrived on sports, hanging out with friends, and staying active. Just before his 16th birthday, his life was upended by a diving accident during a family vacation in Bemidji, MN, resulting in a C5 spinal cord injury and quadriplegia. After the accident, Bryzon underwent critical surgery in Fargo, ND, and faced a challenging recovery, including complications like a collapsed lung and pneumonia. He spent nearly a month in the PICU before moving to Gillette Children’s Hospital in St. Paul, MN, for intensive rehabilitation, where he worked hard to re-learn essential life skills.

As Bryzon and his family adjusted to their new reality of managing a spinal cord injury and quadriplegia, they faced significant medical and financial challenges. To access the specialized care Bryzon needed, they relocated to Fargo in November 2019. Despite the ongoing struggles with health issues and financial strain, Bryzon has made remarkable progress in his recovery and is now preparing to move out on his own. He and his family are hopeful that the supportive community of Fargo will help Bryzon achieve his goal of greater independence and adapt to his new normal.

When you give online to this fundraiser, your gift goes directly to the family, and Lend A Hand Up provides a 20% financial boost to increase your giving value. The Lend A Hand Up boost applies solely to online gifts processed through this giving site. Should you wish to make a gift by cash or check, your generosity should be directed to the family or their fund at Bank, as Lend A Hand Up does not process cash or check gifts for families.