Under the Umbrella: Raindancer Brayden
- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 hours ago
Meet Brayden, a SJGF Raindancer since 2023—shared in his mom Jill’s words.
Brayden is part of a close-knit family—his parents, Larry and Jill, and his two older brothers, Tyler and Garion. “We are a happy family of five, with three wonderful sons.” As a military family, they spent years moving across the country before putting down roots in Northern Virginia—eventually settling in Warrenton.
It was there, on November 3, 2022, that Brayden suffered a severe TBI/DIA—changing the course of life as they knew it.
And in the midst of that change, even their home became part of his journey—“One of the blessings of moving to our new home was that it’s a one-level property, which made it much easier to make the space accessible for Brayden’s recovery.”
What Makes Brayden, Brayden?
“Brayden was born in Hawaii and has always had that chill, laid-back attitude that makes him so unique.” He’s a lifelong superhero fan, an athlete, and someone who has always embraced life fully—swimming, soccer, cross country, and lacrosse, playing through high school at Kettle Run and giving it his all. Outside of sports, he loved dancing, video games, and spending time with friends.
But what stands out most—“He is, without a doubt, the kindest person I’ve ever met.”
Even after his injury, that hasn’t changed.
“Brayden continues to be a good, respectful human, always nice to everyone he meets.”
Words that describe Brayden, from the people who know him best: Inspiring and a blessing— Dad, Amazing and kind— Mom, Resilient— Brother, Kind & Optimistic- Brother, Determined— Sister-in-law
How Does He Inspire & Make You Proud?
Brayden’s strength shows up In everything he does. “Brayden makes us proud every single day. He has an unwavering commitment to his recovery, giving his best no matter the challenge.”
His determination, resilience, and positive attitude continue to inspire everyone around him—especially when they see how far he’s come.
“Brayden shows us what it truly means to be strong—not just physically, but in spirit.”
And through it all, what remains constant is who he is at his core—Kind. Respectful. And someone who lifts others up, simply by being himself.
How does Brayden bring you joy?
“All we have to do is think about Brayden, and we all smile.”
Brayden has a natural way of lifting the people around him—through his humor, his presence, and the way he connects with others. “He has the most hysterical sense of humor, and his laugh is absolutely infectious.”
And when you’re talking to him, you feel it—“When someone talks, he’s all in, fully engaged.” Since his injury, that same spirit has only deepened.
“His work ethic has always been strong, but since his injury, he’s put in even more effort—fully committed to his recovery and always giving his best.”
Brayden brings joy to everyone around him—
and his family couldn’t be more proud of the person he is.
What brings Brayden joy?
Brayden finds joy in the moments that bring people together.
“He absolutely loves to laugh—it’s one of his most infectious qualities.”
Music, time with family and friends, and being around animals are some of his favorite things. “He also loves going to comedy shows and concerts, where he can immerse himself in the fun and energy of the crowd.”
Brayden and His Family
Brayden is surrounded by a family that shows up—every single day. We are blessed with two other incredible sons, an amazing daughter-in-law, and a precious granddaughter. Each of them has been deeply affected by this tragedy, each in their own way.
Tyler, the oldest, stood by Brayden from the very beginning.
“He wouldn’t leave the ICU…standing by Brayden’s door for hours on end.”
The two had always shared a close, playful bond—and just two weeks before the incident, Brayden stood beside him as his best man. Through it all, Tyler’s love has only deepened—
marked by patience, protection, and a faith that continues to grow. Garion, their middle son, dropped everything and flew home the moment he heard. “He’s always been there for Brayden…his love for his brother knows no bounds.” Their shared love for video games and superheroes remains a connection that continues to ground them.
Katlyn, their daughter-in-law, is someone Jill calls a hero.
She not only supports her husband, but she saved Brayden’s life that day.
Her grace, faith, and courage have become a steady presence for the entire family.
And little Ava—just two years old—brings light into it all.
“She loves her Uncle Brayden so much…you can see how his face lights up whenever he sees her.”
What siblings teach the world
It is often said, if you want to know how to treat a child with special needs, look at their siblings. They will teach you...And Brayden's siblings are doing exactly that.
Our children have shown us what it means to love without hesitation or condition.
Through everyday actions—helping Brayden move, including him in activities, patiently waiting for him to find his words—they model what real care looks like. “They’ve shown how love is unconditional.”
Their journey has also opened their eyes to something bigger—“They’ve become more aware of the small things…making sure people with special needs are included and that we are creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.” They go out of their way to see people. To include them. To make them feel valued. Through their actions, they’re teaching something simple—but powerful: Love is about seeing the person, not the challenges.
The Two-Sided Coin
Life under the umbrella often holds two realities at once—the hard and the beautiful, existing side by side. Two sides of the same coin.
The Hard
Life certainly changed for us in an instant.
Over the past few years, Brayden has spent months in the hospital, faced countless complications, and undergone 21 surgeries. His language and mobility were both deeply impacted.
“The hardest part…has been watching Brayden endure so much.”
The physical and emotional toll—on him and on the family—has been a true test of strength.
BUT YET....The Beautiful
Even in the hardest moments, there has been undeniable beauty.
“We have witnessed miracles unfold before us.”
Through the support of family, friends, community, and organizations like SJGF, Brayden’s family has never felt alone.
“On a daily basis, we see God’s work shining through the kindness of so many people.”
Strangers stop to pray for Brayden—almost every day. “It feels like Brayden has a light shining on him…people are drawn to him, connected to his story, and cheering him on.” And there is beauty in the milestones— The first time he stood on his own again. His words returning. Each moment, no matter how small, has been everything to his family.
How Brayden Has Changed Their Family
“Brayden has changed our lives in ways we never could have imagined.” Jill shares that his strength and resilience has reshaped their perspective—teaching patience, gratitude, and what it truly means to persevere. “We’ve learned to appreciate the little things…every smile, every word, every step forward....Brayden has made us better people…more connected, more compassionate, and more grateful.”
This is life under the umbrella. Even in the hardest moments—there is still so much beauty.
Lessons from Under the Umbrella
What It Means to Be a Raindancer Family
“Being a Raindancer family…means everything to us.”
Their first experience with SJGF came during one of the darkest moments—Brayden’s early days in the ICU.
“A gray bag with a yellow umbrella on the front showed up…filled with essentials we never even thought of.”
A small gesture—but one that meant everything. And the support didn’t stop there. Jill shares- from check-in calls during their time away for treatment, to showing up on Brayden’s birthday with an ice cream truck AND his very own all-terrain track chair!
They’ve made us feel like we are never alone…wrapped in love and support.
What Others May Not Understand
Families like Brayden’s are living a reality most don’t see.
“It’s not just the physical challenges… but the emotional, financial, and mental toll.”
The constant appointments, therapies, and unknowns—all while trying to hold onto some sense of normal life. But alongside that weight, there is also joy—found in every small victory. “We are not just caregivers—we are parents, siblings, and loved ones trying to live a full life.”
What Support Can Look Like
Support doesn’t have to be big—it just has to be present.
“For us, the most meaningful support has been the emotional presence of our family and friends.” A text. A call. A visit.
Reminders that they are not alone.
Inclusion matters, too—“Continuing to include Brayden…in everyday moments makes him feel seen and valued.”
Lessons for the world, from Under the Umbrella: Support looks like showing up, including everyone, and walking alongside them—with patience and a whole lotta love.
Thank you for stepping under the umbrella and taking the time to get to know Brayden. From under the umbrella, with love. 💛
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