Braden Lee Small Memorial Scholarship

These funds will provide financial assistance to high school seniors and college students. Braden Small age 23, passed away June 4th 2023, at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, FL after an 11-week battle with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH).

In January 2023, Braden was a senior in his last semester at Florida State University pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. At the end of February, he started feeling ill. Braden sought medical care over the following weeks into mid-March when he was referred to MD Anderson Cancer Center. His first visit to MD Anderson Cancer Center was March 15th, leading to an inpatient admission to the ICU where he was diagnosed with HLH on March 19th.

Braden had to medically withdraw from his studies at Florida State University, immediately starting chemotherapy and blood transfusions twice a week. Braden was inpatient in the ICU when he lost his battle to HLH on Sunday June 4th. Braden showed resilience and always kept a positive attitude until the very end. Even conveying in his final hours that he was most worried not for himself, but about the feelings of his family. He maintained a brave face, refused to give up, and went to be with the Lord peacefully while surrounded by his family.

From his days of wearing an eyepatch to correct his vision to his diagnosis of Juvenile Diabetes, the difficulties Braden faced throughout his life shaped him into a caring and generous person. Determined to live his life to the fullest, he embraced an active lifestyle and loved being outdoors. He had a remarkable ability to make people laugh and was the happiest person in the room. Braden was always quick to lend a helping hand to anyone. Most importantly though, he enjoyed spending time with his friends and family.

To honor Braden's memory, his family is establishing the Braden Lee Small Memorial Scholarship Fund. Your support will have a lasting impact on deserving students, carrying forward Braden's spirit of caring and generosity.