As a father, husband, realtor, long-time Outer Banks resident and dedicated Babe Ruth volunteer coach for many years, Barry Breit knows a thing or two about faith, overcoming obstacles and gratitude for community.
In 2020, Barry went to the emergency room thinking he had COVID. Days later he was rushed to VA Beach by ambulance with a serious blood infection that put him into a coma. His wife was told he may not make it as doctors urgently tried to determine and treat the infection.
As his liver shut down and his kidneys began failing from the infection (that it turns out had started in his replaced knee), Barry was flown to Charlottesville, Virginia and placed on a liver transplant list. Within 24-hours, he received news that there was a perfect match … a gift that saved his life.
“Our medical bills were hundreds of thousands of dollars after insurance. Receiving help from the Relief Foundation really helped our family in a very difficult time,” Breit said.
“But far beyond the money, the support, care and sense of community the foundation offered made a big difference to our family when we really needed it.”
“Every one of us needs a little help sometimes,” he continued. “If you ever find yourself needing help, don’t be ashamed to ask.”
When asked about the timing of receiving a match so quickly, Barry didn’t pause, “It is by the Grace of God that I received a liver that quickly. He has a plan for me.”
Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting Barry would agree.
