Who is Gilly?

Nick “Gilly” Gilbert passed on May 6th, 2023 due to complications with neurofibromatosis (NF) - a genetic disorder he was diagnosed with at infancy. The thing is: Nick’s entire life was a fight - you just would have never known. A brain operation at 10 didn’t stop him from living the rest of his childhood just as every kid did. Eyesight limitations were no match for his desire to continuously represent - and win - the Cleveland Cavaliers at the NBA Draft Lottery - igniting an entire fanbase and inspiring millions with his coined smile, bow-tie and victory celebrations. Back-to-back brain surgeries, radiation and resulting physical disabilities didn’t stop him from graduating Michigan State University. He gracefully flew through every obstacle with a smile on his face just to make things easier for everyone else.

Nick lived every-single-day with meaning. He didn’t need to go searching for his purpose. His life was his purpose. Surviving could have been more than enough, but because he didn’t see himself differently, he relentlessly went after everything he set his mind to. If he wanted to hear your voice, he’d call you until you answered. If he wasn’t invited to a party, he’d show up as the main act. If you met him, you were his friend. If he said he loved you, he meant it.

Nick’s ability to play the hand he was dealt, no matter how unfair it may have been, has provided all of his loved ones with such meaningful perspective. We had the privilege to experience life with Nick and learn to live as he did: with unconditional love, absolute generosity & sacrifice, and an unwavering belief that tomorrow will be a better day.

Now it’s our job to spread Nick’s perspective and impact people the way he impacted us.