Help Alex and Friends Recover from Fire

On January 19th, 2025, at 7:42 PM, tragedy struck when the apartment building where my friend and former student, Alexander Blake Silverman, his partner, and their two roommates lived was engulfed in flames. While everyone, including their one feline companion, made it out safely, the fire claimed the lives of their other beloved pets and destroyed everything they owned.

If you've been part of the New England heavy metal scene, SCA, HEMA, powerlifting, knife-making, LARP, or VET communities—or if you're a fan of Forged in Fire—there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with Alex, his partner, or their roommates. They are some of the kindest, most generous people I've ever met, always willing to give their time, energy, and even the last of what they have to help others in need.

Now, it's our turn to help them. I’m asking anyone who sees this to contribute whatever they can—$5, $10, or whatever you feel moved to give—and share this campaign far and wide. Your support will help them rebuild their lives, secure a new place to call home, and begin to recover from this unimaginable loss.

While we can’t bring back the pets they’ve lost or replace the irreplaceable keepsakes, we can come together as a community to lift them up and show them the same kindness they’ve shown to so many of us.

Please donate today and help Alex and his household get back on their feet. Every dollar counts, and your support means the world.

I’m working alongside Judy, Alex’s mother, to do what we can to alleviate the burden on Alex, his partner, and their roommates after the devastating fire that destroyed their home. We understand that times are tough for many of us right now, but even the smallest contribution can make a big difference.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and for helping in any way you can. Let’s come together as a community to show them they’re not alone during this challenging time.