The Jeansonne Benefit

In September 2019, Brian began experiencing a slight weakness in his left ankle and foot. As time progressed so did Brian’s lack of muscle control in his left leg. As a runner he chalked it up to some bad running shoes, and over extending himself, however the issues surrounding his muscles continued.   After many months of doctors visits and tests, 

Brian was diagnosed in April of 2020 with ALS also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.  The average life expectancy is 2-5 years, however 30% of people will live 5 years or more. As the disease progresses over the next few months and years, Brian will experience many challenges in his day-to-day living. More than likely this will include the need to use a wheelchair and he will require much additional assistance. Unfortunately there haven't been many advances in a cure for ALS, considering it affects so little of the population. Because of the uncertainty around all of this, Brian and Kristy, with the support of their family and friends, are not taking a day for granted. They are continuing to lean into their trust, and remain grounded in the big picture that God has set before them.  

However, they are navigating the hard realities of this disease, and the ways it will impact their everyday lives. Brian and Kristy have five children, Micah 15, Jonah 14, Nathan 13, Lucas 11, and Zoe Moon, 8.  Kristy is not only faced with being a wife, mother, pastor at Mid City Vineyard, but is now taking on a new role as caregiver to Brian. While they are processing the mountain of emotions, they are now launched into a sea of financial burdens. Brian and Kristy will have to customize their home to accommodate Brian’s wheelchair, such as widening door frames, getting customized furniture, and installing a ramp to the home.  The family will also need to purchase a new handicap accessible vehicle, in conjunction with the medical expenses for aids, doctor’s appointments, treatments, and therapists, as well as any other expenses they may have to face.

We at Twenty:35npo would like, with the help of the community, to rally around The Jeansonne Family and pour into their lives in the same way they showed up for their community. Brian has been an example of faith in action. Brian has always shown up for people as they walk through life, the good and the bad. He is the kind of guy that will celebrate with you, and the kind of guy that will guide you through the hardships. Early next year (2021) we will be hosting a Benefit for The Jeansonne Family, but in the meantime donations can be made directly to the family through Twenty:35npo by clicking the donations button below.