Community Corner

Ironman, Crash Survivor's Story Inspires Foxborough Community to Give Blood, Save Lives

Brian Boyle, an Ironman tri-athlete and blood recipient, shared his story of survival and recovery from a horrific car accident in 2004 with over 800 Foxborough High School students last week.

Brian Boyle was just 18 years old when he nearly lost his life from a horrific car crash involving a dump truck.

The impact from the 2004 accident, according to an American Red Cross press release, caused Boyle's heart to literally move across his chest. The near-fatal injuries altered Boyle's life and nearly darkened his once bright future but the Maryland native was determined to survive and recover ... and that's exactly what he did.

Following many operations and a medically induced coma, Boyle beat the odds to survive. He received 36 blood transfusions and 13 plasma treatments. Boyle's recovery brought him out of the coma and put him into a wheelchair. From there, he relearned to walk and with his hard work and dedication recovered well enough to compete in Ironman Triathlons and marathons.

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Now 26, Boyle has participated in the Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii, the Boston Marathon, the Ironman Triathlon in New York City and the Hartford Marathon as an Elite Inspiration Team member. Boyle competes in Red Cross gear for Team Red Cross and as he is a celebrated hero and volunteer spokesperson for the American Red Cross.

Which is why he was in Foxborough this past weekend promoting the sixth annual "Mega" Blood Drive at Gillette Stadium. The drive was a joint effort between Bob’s Discount Furniture, the American Red Cross and the New England Patriots.

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Boyle visited Foxborough High School to speak with students during an assembly last Friday to promote the blood drive and encourage students to give blood and save someone's life ... like his. Boyle's message was about beating the odds, overcoming adversity and making a difference by giving blood and saving a life.

On Saturday, Boyle attended the "Mega" Blood Drive in town at Gillette Stadium's Putnam Club. He gave blood and encouraged others to do so. Boyle says he represents the many blood recipients whose lives have been saved in part due to Red Cross blood donors. 

Boyle has authored the book, Iron Heart and was recently honored as a Champion of Change at the White House for all of his volunteer work with the American Red Cross. 


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