01/06/2024
Like everyone else within the reptile community I'm saddened by the news of Brian Barczyk 's journey at its end. I have been at this point before. I have been the one waiting for the inevitable end. My heart goes out to Lori, the family, and his extended family/crew, more than words can express.
I wasn't but acquaintance to Brian and Lori in the early 90's. My wife and I attended and eventually started vending the Lee Watson show in Streamwood, IL. That's where we first met Brian. We got some of our first animals from him, and would talk snakes at the shows often. Always eager to see what they had. This was before the mounds of Ball pythons when there was deli's stacked a foot high of every colubrid imaginable. We attended and vended this show from 91 until 98 or so. Then life got busy and the show and hobby took back a back seat. I wasn't breeding and only keeping a few animal's. So we lost touch with all of those involved with the hobby including Brian.
In 2014 the fire to breed snakes again was stoked. My wife insisted we get some adults to start back up. Around that time BHB was downsizing and selling a lot proven breeders. Remembering them from the shows, we didn't hesitate and got 2.2 brooks kings.
After receiving the animals I called to ask some questions and let them know I received them alive and well. The number I called ended up being Brian's cell number somehow. After questioning how I got the number I did we ended up talking snakes for a half hour. I told him how we use to vend the Lee Watson's show, but it wasn't ringing a bell.
In 2016 while attending the NARBC Tinley show we finally got to meet again. This time Brian saw us and recognized us right away. We were able to talk for about 20 minutes and reminisce before fans started gathering. I wasn't a huge fan of the vlog, but was a subscriber and watched quite often non the less. After hearing of his diagnosis with cancer I selfishly didn't want to watch anymore. I have already watched love ones become consumed by cancer and didn't want to watch it again. I reluctantly tuned back in just out of curiosity and to see how he was doing. I'm great full I did. You hear of all the stories of those inspired by Brian getting them involved with reptiles or over the fear of, or for following there dreams. Brian has inspired me in different ways throughout the years. He was one of the firsts to show me I could make a living breeding snakes. To be honest he showed me what not to do in some circumstances. Lastly he showed me real strength and tenacity to continue on regardless of the cards dealt. You truly are a legend because of legacy you will leave behind.
Thank you Brian. 🙂❤️🐍
