“Below Deck” Cameraman Brent Freeburg in Critical Condition After Strokes and Hematoma
In a turn of events that has left fans of “Below Deck” and everyone who values heroism reeling, cameraman Brent Freeburg is currently in a coma following two strokes and a subdural hematoma. This incident occurred on February 15 in Redondo Beach, California, according to a GoFundMe set up by his family to cover medical expenses. Yes, you read that right—a dude behind the camera became a bona fide hero during season 6 when he saved cast member Ashton Pienaar, pulling him out of a potentially deadly situation after Pienaar got tangled up in a tow line and fell overboard. Pienaar shared the alarming news about Freeburg’s health on Instagram, expressing deep gratitude: “Some people leave an impact on your life that you can never repay.” Freeburg’s situation is more than just alarming; it’s heart-wrenching. His mom, Cheri, revealed in updates on the GoFundMe that Brent has undergone multiple medical procedures, including an emergency surgery for the subdural hematoma, which, as per Cedars-Sinai, is a serious condition involving a “buildup of blood on the surface of the brain.” Following that, he also suffered a stroke that left his left side weak. Talk about a tough hand to deal with. Despite being in a coma, there are glimmers of hope; updates indicate he occasionally opens his eyes, and the latest news suggests he has begun to move his toes and even squeeze hands on command. Cheri expressed a desire to transfer him to an East Coast hospital, but they’re facing the financial strain of not having medical insurance. That’s where the GoFundMe comes in, emphasizing the narrative of Brent being not just a cameraman but a hero—a theme that has resonated widely among fans who know him as the guy who broke the fourth wall to save a life. If you have a chance to help out, Brent’s family is eager to get him closer to home for recovery. This isn’t just a story of strokes and surgeries; it’s also a reminder of how one person’s quick action can make an indelible mark on another’s life, much like Brent’s impact on the “Below Deck” crew.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Cedars-Sinai, GoFundMe
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