Amid the sudden tragedy of a beloved community member in Osoyoos struck by a new disease, many locals are banding together to fundraise for his family.
Brendan Nishimura (formerly known as Brendan Kolybaba) is a long-time local in the Osoyoos community, having worked at Jojo’s Cafe, Elvis’ Fine Jewelry, Osoyoos Home Building Centre, and many other places. Unfortunately, Nishimura was recently diagnosed with a new disease called MOGAD, an inflammatory condition which attacks the spine and brain.
What the family initially thought was just a back injury turned out to be the disease slowly making him lose function of his feet, legs and bladder, among other body parts.
In the GoFundMe page launched on Aug. 16, the family wrote that Nishimura is currently unable to walk or eat solid food. His nervous system has many issues due to the disease that causes spasms and pain. He is now in a rehabilitation centre, re-learning how to walk.
A number of local residents and business (like Jojo’s Cafe) have come together to fundraise for Nishimura, including the Unity store that is donating 100 per cent of proceeds from selected merchandise towards the cause.
Jamie Elder of Unity said that it’s easy to want to do something for his close friend Nishimura because he is truly an incredible person.
“I have two kids now, and I just [hope] my kids have 10 per cent of what Brendan managed to create, as a human being within himself . . . even just 10 per cent of that positivity and that inner peace and undying love for everybody,” said Elder.
Elder adds that he thinks Nishimura’s positive nature has helped him deal with this nightmarish situation that has quickly transpired in his life.
“It’s just unfair on so many levels and then it’s just compounded by the fact that he’s recently married, his son turned one [last] weekend. The hits in this situation just don’t stop,” said Elder.
MOGAD is a relatively new disease, so the medication for it is not covered under B.C. Medical. According to the family, the medication he needs is essential to his recovery and comfort, which will cost them $40,000/year. Despite this, the outpouring of support from the community has been amazing, said Elder. The GoFundMe page which was only launched at the tail end of last week with a goal of $10,000, raised over $16,000 in just a few days, with more donations coming in.
“Brendan is an amazing person. His positivity, especially during these times, is truly amazing,” said the GoFundMe page.
“We are hoping to remove some of the financial stress from their lives so Brendan can focus on getting better and back to his family.”
