TECUMSEH, Mich. — A simple piece of safety equipment now stands as a powerful reminder at Tecumseh Park — and a promise that no life will be lost in vain.
On Sunday, loved ones gathered to honor the memory of Brady Donnelly, a young man who drowned at the park’s lake in 2024. In his name, a series of life rings have been installed around the water, part of a growing effort to make the park safer for all visitors.
Brady, a Petersburg, Ohio resident, and behavioral technician supporting children on the autism spectrum, had spent his life helping others. After his death, his family founded The Brady Effect; a nonprofit working to improve swim safety for individuals on the spectrum.
Through tears, Brady’s family spoke of their mission to honor him: promoting swim safety and education. Standing by the glimmering water where he was lost, they said simply, quote, “We hope we’re making you proud,” unquote.
Parks and Recreation Director Sarah Gilmore says additional rings will be in place soon.
That was Parks and Recreation Director Sarah Gilmore.
The life rings are a small gesture — but one that could mean everything to a family who might otherwise endure the unimaginable.
