B the Difference

What is NF

Neurofibromatosis (NF), is a term for three distinct medical disorders: NF1, NF2, and Schwannomatosis. NF causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and can lead to blindness, bone abnormalities, cancer, deafness, disfigurement, learning disabilities, and excruciating and disabling pain.

About Us

B the Difference was founded in October 2011 by Stephanie and Jessica Merritt to honor the memory of their brother, Brandon. When Brandon was 8 months old he was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis (NF), a disease targeting the nervous system by developing tumors on nerve endings. Brandon never asked "Why me?" as NF compromised his ability to play sports and interact with children his age—if anything his physical disabilities allowed his personality to become incredibly nurturing and sensitive. B the Difference, the name and trademark of the Brandon Merritt Charitable Foundation, is not just a catchy name—we truly strive to B the Difference in the fight for a cure for Neurofibromatosis.

About Brandon

Brandon Merritt, lovingly referred to as "B" by his co-workers at Beaver Creek, was born in June 1988 and was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis (NF1) eight months later. He was the youngest in his family, with two older sisters, Stephanie and Jessica, who made it their purpose to love and protect him.

Our B Happy Program

B Happy provides a much needed diversion from living with NF by providing a vacation of a lifetime to individuals with NF and their families. The B the Difference Board works with highly regarded NF doctors to select NF patients to be considered for this opportunity. The concept of this program is derived in Brandon Merritt’s memory and stems from his curiosity of adventure, love of the great outdoors and appreciation for the simple moments in life. B Happy allows participants the chance to escape hospital beds, routine tests, MRIs, chemotherapy and more to forget their everyday worries, while embarking on a journey they will never forget.

Where the Money Goes

B Happy is a program we have established which allows individuals with Neurofibromatosis and their families to enjoy a break from the difficult and emotionally straining daily life with NF; similar to the popular and successful Make-A-Wish Foundation. We learned during Brandon’s battle with NF that simple diversions go a very long way as they provide anticipation, participation and memories that last a lifetime. Beaver Creek, Colorado and the surrounding valley was Brandon’s home and has so much to offer that we would like to share with others.

We Thank You

From all of us at B the Difference, thank you so much for supporting us and our endeavors! We’re truly blessed to have such amazing people support our cause! We cannot dream of being successful without the overwhelming generosity we receive from our friends, extended family, and local and national businesses.

Hopefully, there will be a cure for NF within our lifetime so others don’t have to suffer like Brandon did. One day at a time, one event at a time, we are striving to B the Difference in the fight for a cure.

We know you have charities close to your heart, and we will continue to work hard so we can remain one of them.

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Meet our B Kind recipients

and read their inspiring stories here.

Remembering Brandon

On February 2, 2011, Brandon lost his battle with NF. Join us in remembering Brandon by watching this short video.

Aventura Magazine Feature