The vibrant atmosphere in downtown Kansas City was palpable as Billy Brimblecom Jr. prepared for his much-anticipated performance at the historic Uptown Theater. His passion for drumming ignited decades ago when he first heard “Wipe Out” on his father’s car radio, a moment that forever altered the course of his life. “That drum solo, very famous, comes on, and I start doing that on the dash,” Brimblecom recounted. “At that moment, I was like, ‘Yes, I do!'”
However, 20 years ago, his world was rocked when a doctor informed him he had a mass the size of a large apple in his ankle, a diagnosis that turned out to be a sarcoma. The recommendation to amputate his leg was not just a matter of preserving his mobility but a critical step to save his life. “The thing I feared the most was losing my leg,” he admitted, reflecting on the turmoil that came with his diagnosis and subsequent 13 rounds of chemotherapy.
Ultimately, the surgery resulted in an amputation just above the knee, forcing Brimblecom to navigate life with a prosthetic limb. However, he was not alone in this struggle. His friends, including Jason Sudeikis, known for his role in “Ted Lasso,” rallied around him with unwavering support. “You know, I think that when you care about someone and you’ve got a little love in your heart, there ain’t nothing you can’t get through together,” Sudeikis shared, emphasizing the bond of friendship that proved vital for Brimblecom during his recovery.
The two friends’ journey began at an improv workshop in Kansas City, with Brimblecom eventually pursuing a music career while Sudeikis found success in comedy. When Brimblecom faced the hefty costs of a prosthetic leg, Sudeikis stepped in with an initiative that would become emblematic of their friendship. Sudeikis organized a Kansas City barbecue fundraiser that not only covered the cost but evolved into an annual charity event named Thundergong!.
Thundergong! has become a community institution, drawing an array of talent from across the entertainment world, including actors and musicians who come together to support a worthy cause. With Sudeikis at the helm, the event has raised significant funds, helping to provide prosthetic limbs for over 2,000 amputees across the nation through the nonprofit organization Steps of Faith, which Brimblecom later took on as CEO.
Reflecting on this mission, Brimblecom noted the substantial financial barriers many amputees face. “The thing that was preventing me from just walking around on a prosthetic leg versus using crutches, or being in a wheelchair, is insurance and money. That shouldn’t be a barrier,” he explained.
Among the stories that highlight the impact of Steps of Faith is that of Josh Conner, a contractor who lost his leg after falling from scaffolding. Conner described receiving inadequate support from worker’s comp, leaving him with a prosthetic that offered limited mobility. But after being introduced to Brimblecom and Steps of Faith, he received a specially designed prosthetic limb, restoring his confidence and allowing him to return to work. “Steps of Faith has given me my confidence back – you know, everything,” Conner stated with gratitude.
As Thundergong! continues to grow, with fundraising efforts surpassing $1 million in recent years, the spirit of camaraderie and generosity remains at its core. Participants view it as not only a fun event but a significant contribution to the lives of those who face significant challenges. “It’s about hope, confidence, surviving, and thriving,” Brimblecom noted, encapsulating the essence of their mission.
Through the power of friendship, support, and shared passion for music, Brimblecom and Sudeikis inspire a new generation of hope, proving that collective efforts can uplift those in need.
