To the Editor:

On 2/28/21 my son, Brandon Hensel, was in a fatal car accident. Every parent’s worst fear was now my reality. The doctors and staff at Danbury Hospital did everything they could, but Brandon’s injuries were not survivable; we had to remove life support the following day. He was only 22.

I send my heartfelt and overdue “THANK YOU” to the officers with the Newtown Police Department and Newtown Ambulance EMTs, who all fought so hard to save my son. I do not know your names, but you know who you are and know this is for you. To the dr’s, nurses, and technicians at Danbury Hospital, we are grateful to all of you for your valiant efforts, which allowed us to be with him at the end. You are truly special.

We have received so many messages with love and prayers, that I am unable to respond personally. Please accept this letter as a huge overdue blanket “THANK YOU.” My sons Kyle and Jordan and I cannot begin to say how much these have meant. “THANK YOU” to everyone that came to his service and stood in line in the cold to pay your respects. I am touched with the overwhelming turnout.

To everyone who donated to the Gofundme account, “THANK YOU”! We are profoundly grateful. The remaining funds will go to the Athletic Memorial Scholarship in Brandon’s name at Newtown High School. The scholarship will help two football players that want to go into a STEM field in college. Brandon loved athletics, but also academics. This Memorial Scholarship will be in place for years to come. Any donations can be sent to the NHS office.

As we now try to navigate our lives with a heavy heart and without Brandon, I want to say to everyone that knew & loved him, you know how much you meant to him. He would wish nothing but the best for you all. Please keep his name spoken, his spirit alive in your heart, and his love for living in your life.

This town was where Brandon was raised, went to school, made friends, played sports, and loved. Though he ventured off to college and was a CCSU Blue Devil and a CCSU Hooligan, he will forever be a Nighthawk!

Sincerely,

Karen Hensel

5 Horseshoe Ridge Road, Sandy Hook April 23, 2021