Help Kirby Recover His Strength and Independence
Kirby has fought through cancer, a stem cell transplant, and months of medical setbacks. He’s still working hard to recover — but after two years of health crises, he’s run out of options and needs our help to stand on his own again.
💙 Kirby’s Story
Just a few years ago, Kirby was thriving — down under 200 pounds, walking six miles a day, and singing with the Washington Chorus.
Then, in 2023, his life changed overnight. Kirby was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive lymphoma. After intensive treatment, he underwent a stem cell transplant at Johns Hopkins in early 2024 — and it worked. He’s cancer-free today.
But recovery hasn’t been simple. While still weak from the transplant, Kirby fell and fractured multiple vertebrae. Later, in early 2025, he suffered a mysterious relapse: severe blood pressure drops, delirium, and repeated falls — one of which fractured his shoulder. Doctors eventually diagnosed autonomic dysfunction, a serious disorder that affects blood pressure and balance.
Throughout 2025, Kirby’s been in and out of hospitals and rehab centers. His weight dropped to 140 pounds, but in recent months, he’s slowly regained strength and can now stand and walk short distances.
Recently, Kirby moved into a group care home in Maryland, where he continues to rehab a broken leg and rebuild his independence.
💵 Why Kirby Needs Help
Kirby’s long-term disability payments don’t cover the cost of his group home or the physical and occupational therapy he still needs.
He’s lost his apartment and car, and most of his belongings are in storage. After years of treatment and time off work, he’s carrying medical and personal debt that he simply can’t pay back alone.
Your donation will help:
1️⃣ Cover the gap between Kirby’s disability income and care costs
2️⃣ Fund Physical & Occupational Therapy to rebuild strength
3️⃣ Retire debts and help Kirby restart independent living when he’s able
🌱 There’s Hope
The good news: Kirby’s blood pressure is stabilizing, his weight is up, and his mind is clear and strong. He’s determined to return to work, regain his health, and once again sing with his chorus.
He would love to hear from friends and supporters — visits, notes, and messages mean the world right now.
🙏 Who’s Organizing This
This fundraiser is managed by Kirby’s friends Eric Hoy, Kiu Kianpour, and Michael Bernstein; along with his sister, Kimberly Knight Wayland.
If you have questions, please reach out —
📧 Eric Hoy: mailto:erichoy@aol.com
(Spotfund charges a 2.9% + $0.30 transaction fee. If you prefer to donate by check, ask and we’ll help you do that.)
❤️ Thank You
Your kindness will help Kirby rebuild his strength, regain his independence, and return to the life — and the music — he loves.
From Eric, Kiu, Michael, Kim, and especially Kirby — pictured below ringing the bell after completing cancer treatment at Johns Hopkins.
