01/19/2026
We are sad to share that Brett Botelho has passed away at the too-young age of 37. 💔
Anyone who knew Brett was aware of the fierce athlete inside him. Although his physical decline began at age seven, when he began experiencing neurological issues which affected his immune system and attacked his body, Brett battled to overcome it. He chose a below the knee amputation rather than major reconstruction of his leg and foot to give him the best chance of living an active and adventurous life. Afterwards, he competed in parasnowboarding and won medals in the sport.
We met Brett at an amputee conference almost 10 years ago. He has been a close member of our POA family ever since – once even moving from Colorado to live and work with us here in Orlando, until worsening health conditions made it necessary to return home.
Brett once said, “I want to do what gives me purpose rather than just sitting around and waiting for something to go wrong.” That was just after he had undergone his second amputation, this one above the knee, making him a bilateral amputee. Brett was already asking how we could set up his legs for snowboarding so he could get back on the mountain!
We spent a lot of time laughing, joking, and talking sports with Brett. Once we set him up on “extra long” legs for a day so he could stand next to former NFL player Eli Harold and be taller than him. That was a good day! We also prayed with Brett and encouraged him to have faith and pursue his dreams.
Our hearts are heavy with the loss of our good friend, but we are so thankful and blessed to have been part of his life. Please keep Brett’s parents and brother in your prayers as they go through this difficult time. 🙏🏻
