Remembering a Beloved Son and Nephew, Brian Petras
My beloved son Brian Petras was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma in July 2009. He lost his right leg to the disease while serving in the USAF. After treatment he lived his life to the fullest. Brian participated in the 2010 SEA to Shining Sea Bike Ride across America with World Team Sports 10 months later. He ran in multiple marathons, including the 2013 Boston Marathon. He also biked in Face of America from Washington D.C. to Gettysburg Pa. Unfortunately in January 2013 the cancer returned in Brian’s lungs. He had surgery and treatment for three years. He lost his battle on January 23, 2016. Brian was an inspiration to everyone he met. He was an amazing son, brother, nephew and friend.
After his passing, we discovered The Paula Takacs Foundation for Sarcoma Research. My sister Kathy and I have been donating every year in hopes of finding a cure for this rare disease. We donated a spring flower in memory of Brian. It was an honor to attend the unveiling of the Seasons of Life glass art installation.
Susan Petras and Kathy Mckenzie