Sleep Apnea Memorials and Tributes

On August 19, 2020, Bryan Chaney passed away in his sleep due to complications related to Obstructive Sleep Apnea at the age of 25. Bryan was just getting started on his adult life. He was engaged to be married and in the process of purchasing a house when his life was cut short.

Bryan’s Mom and other family members are CPAP users, so when Bryan began to experience fatigue and other symptoms in the Fall of 2019, Bryan and his Mom began to work with medical providers to have him tested and begin treatment for sleep apnea. The process took much longer than anticipated due to his young age. Medical providers were reluctant to provide treatment as it was believed his age was a deterrent for treatment. After much pushing with medical providers, he finally obtained his CPAP machine in early 2020. Bryan was good about using his CPAP machine when he was at his own home, however, his work schedule and life with his fiancé meant that he didn’t always sleep in his own room with his CPAP. He experienced a heart-related incident the night of August 19, 2020 due to complications from his under-treated Sleep Apnea.

Bryan was a devoted son, brother, fiancé, and friend to many. Bryan was a person who could light up a room and he made many friends in his short journey. Many of those friends have shared how Bryan helped to change their lives through his lively spirit, kindness, caring, spirituality, and generosity. The loss of his light in the lives of family and friends was a deep blow. Bryan loved pretty much all sports and get-togethers with family and friends. He always enjoyed playing golf whenever his schedule allowed. To honor his memory and share his caring spirit, Bryan’s family will honor their son’s memory by hosting a memorial golf tournament in Walkersville, MD on May 21, 2021. Proceeds from the event will go directly to the American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The work of ASAA coincides with the Chaneys’ hope to expand education about this condition to prevent another family from ever having to experience a loss like this.

Fredrick Key was the beloved husband to Ernestine Key (ASAA Board Member) and adoring father to Lena Pearl Key. He peacefully transitioned to heaven in September 2018. Fred was an amazing jazz musician who played the upright bass and enjoyed riding all kinds of bikes, from spin cycles to motorcycles. Those who knew him know that he was a man filled with passion and a lot of love.

For several years, Fred went undiagnosed with a disorder called sleep apnea. It was this condition that later led to a massive stroke that he survived for nearly six years before his transition.

It is estimated that over 20 million American adults are undiagnosed with sleep apnea today. When untreated, it is often coupled with other serious health conditions like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Loud snoring, daytime fatigue and gasping for air while sleeping are just a few of its symptoms. Meet Ernestine here to learn more about Fred’s life and diagnosis, and the Key Family’s dedication to raising awareness of sleep apnea and its health consequences.