This year we walk in memory of Bryan M. Sanders, a beloved son, father, brother, friend, and the love of my life - who was taken far too soon from us by Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). Bryan was only 54 years young.
What began as subtle changes in the summer of 2024 - trouble sleeping in July and August - quickly changed into confusion and brain fog by Septmeber and October. At first, doctors treated his symptoms as long term COVID; but something in me knew it was different. After a frightening January 7 hospital visit and seven days of tests with no answers, I would begin to do my own research. Finally, on Janaury 31st the results for CJD would come back postive and the doctor would confirm this information on Feb 3rd. That same day, hospice was arranged, and on February 12, 2025 at 1:57AM, Bryan passed from this world.
Caring for Bryan in those final weeks - feeding him, bathing him, and holding his hand - was the hardest and most sacred thing I've ever done. I promised him I would not leave his side, and I kept that promise. Letting him go was the hardest thing I've ever faced. There are so many things left unsaid, so many small moments I wish we'd had more of. He made our world a brighter place. The grief is immense; the love is immeasurable.
Bryan's story is a heartbreaking reminder of how cruel and devasting this rare disease can be. Yet, his memory lives on in the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the strength of those who now walk in his honor. We walk to raise awareness about CJD, to fund research, and to support families facing this cruel, sudden disease. Every step we take honours Bryan's life and the many lives touched by CJD. Join us in remembering him - not just for how the disease took him, but for the warmth, laughter, and the love he gave every day he was here.
Ashley Rubio