Fundraiser for Briant Bierhals

On Wednesday, July 12th, my brother Briant had an accident and was severely burned. Not knowing how severe the injury was, he was initially rushed to a Green Bay hospital and then referred to the burn center in Milwaukee for treatment. He suffered 2nd degree burns to his entire face, including his eyes, ears, and mouth. He also suffered burns to his right shoulder, arm, and hand. The first 48 hours after his accident, he was blind in both eyes. As the swelling on his face decreased, he could only open his right eye on Saturday. He still can't fully see out of his left eye.

A surgeon at the burn center in Milwaukee assessed his healing on Wednesday and felt he needed surgery on the left side of his face as soon as possible to help reduce the amount of scarring. The most severe area of his injury is on the left side of his face around his eye and forehead. Briant will undergo surgery this upcoming Monday in Milwaukee. The surgeon will be removing skin from his head to graft on his face. The surgeon is optimistic that this will help reduce permanent damage to his face; however, more surgical procedures may be needed to achieve the best results. Briant is also seeing an eye specialist, who is closely monitoring his left eye. We still do not know the extent of his eye injury and whether permanent damage and vision loss will occur.

We take each day as it comes, and we now know that he will have a long road to recovery. He continues to fight through physical and emotional trauma from his accident daily.

Before the accident, Briant worked full-time and attended school at UWGB for Software Development. Due to his injuries, he cannot work, go to school, or drive. My family has been caring for him during his recovery, as he needs 24-hour care for his wounds and driving him to his appointments in Milwaukee.

My family, Briant, and I are grateful to everyone who has asked how they can help. Many people this past week asked if we started a fund for him. I created this fund for Briant to help cover the costs of his bills and rent while he is recovering. Anything donated is so greatly appreciated.

Anyone close to Briant knows he has undergone so many obstacles with his health at a young age. Seeing him go through another major health obstacle is heartbreaking for my family. He is a wonderful son, brother, uncle, and friend to many. My brother has a heart of gold. Watching him go through this traumatic experience this past week with the most optimistic attitude is admirable and humbling.

Please keep my brother Briant in your prayers and positive vibes for healing as he goes through each day with one foot forward and undergoes his surgery this upcoming Monday.