Brett Parks...A true Jacksonville hero

We often wonder what we would do in a crisis situation. Well, 33 year old Naval Sailor Brett Parks had the chance to show he has all the right stuff. Brett was leaving a client after doing some part-time personal training. He heard screams coming from the pool area of the apartment complex and ran to see if he could help. Suddenly a man ran toward him. He tried to stop the man but was shot point blank range and fell to the ground.

Brett was taken to Shands Hospital in a life threatening condition. The bullet had severed his vena cava, the largest vein in the heart and he was bleeding internally. After several surgeries and procedures to stabilize him, Brett miraculously pulled through. He lost his leg and a kidney but his family says he is a strong fighter and will make it through this.

Brett and his wife Susan are expecting a daughter “Stella” in just a few weeks. Susan sits at Brett’s side hoping Stella will wait until her due date to arrive so that Brett can gain strength and be released from the hospital and return home. Son Jason 17 months “will be a great big brother” said Susan.

We were able to provide a check to help with expenses, baby items for little Stella and a bag of toys for Jason. â”This seems like nothing to give considering what Brett did to try to help a stranger in need.” said Judi Zitiello, Board Chair of JTTF.