Handicapped Accessibility Van and Gear for Brian
Donation protected
Brian D'Amico played basketball for NC State University under legendary coach Jim Valvano, from 1987-90, earning a position as starting center his senior year. With an energetic and enthusiastic personality both on & off the court, "Big Meeks" was well-liked by coaches, teammates and friends. Brian was was a hardworking, blue collar, solid player that fit in well with the backcourt duo of Chris Corchiani and Rodney Monroe --- better known as "Fire and Ice" --- playing in the front court alongside the likes of future NBA veterans Tom Gugliotta, Chucky Brown and Vinny Del Negro.
In 1992, Brian was involved in a severe automobile accident, causing a spinal cord injury and leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Always the tough competitor, the injured Wolfpacker fought back, eventually adapting to his disability, and ultimately landing a job as a Network Administrator in his hometown of Reading, PA.
In recent times, less fortunate circumstances have taken their toll on Brian’s independence. Over the past several years from the downturn in the economy and companies downsizing, and the current implications of Covid-19 he has lost a huge part of his independence. He has lost his job and worst of all, he no longer has transportation. This loss of independence creates an enormous struggle to find any gainful employment, go to critical doctor’s appointments or run simple everyday errands. His only option for transportation presently is public transportation in Reading, PA.
Given the prohibitive cost of handicapped accessibility vans and medical equipment, Brian's teammates from NC State are gathering together to raise the necessary funds to help Brian purchase a specially made full size van with a wheelchair lift and driving modifications. Along with helping his transportation need this fund may also help cover his current medical equipment needs which are extensive.
The NC State Basketball Family asks for your help with a donation to this fund. Your donation would be greatly appreciated in helping Brian overcome his present adversity, and help him reach his goals of regaining employment, and his very important independence.
While playing basketball for the Wolfpack and under Coach V, Brian has learned many lessons. One very important one is, “Don’t Give Up, Don’t Ever Give Up!” – Coach V.
In 1992, Brian was involved in a severe automobile accident, causing a spinal cord injury and leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Always the tough competitor, the injured Wolfpacker fought back, eventually adapting to his disability, and ultimately landing a job as a Network Administrator in his hometown of Reading, PA.
In recent times, less fortunate circumstances have taken their toll on Brian’s independence. Over the past several years from the downturn in the economy and companies downsizing, and the current implications of Covid-19 he has lost a huge part of his independence. He has lost his job and worst of all, he no longer has transportation. This loss of independence creates an enormous struggle to find any gainful employment, go to critical doctor’s appointments or run simple everyday errands. His only option for transportation presently is public transportation in Reading, PA.
Given the prohibitive cost of handicapped accessibility vans and medical equipment, Brian's teammates from NC State are gathering together to raise the necessary funds to help Brian purchase a specially made full size van with a wheelchair lift and driving modifications. Along with helping his transportation need this fund may also help cover his current medical equipment needs which are extensive.
The NC State Basketball Family asks for your help with a donation to this fund. Your donation would be greatly appreciated in helping Brian overcome his present adversity, and help him reach his goals of regaining employment, and his very important independence.
While playing basketball for the Wolfpack and under Coach V, Brian has learned many lessons. One very important one is, “Don’t Give Up, Don’t Ever Give Up!” – Coach V.
Organizer and beneficiary
Tor Ramsey
Organizer
Raleigh, NC
Brian D'Amico
Beneficiary