The Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Cuyahoga DD) and the greater community of Seven Hills, Ohio, are mourning the heartbreaking loss of a shining star. Breanna Marguerite Sprenger—known to many as simply “Bre”—passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025, due to complications following surgery. Her passing has left an immense void in the hearts of all who knew her, worked with her, and were touched by her unwavering determination and radiant spirit.
Breanna was more than a strong woman with big dreams—she was a relentless advocate, a compassionate leader, and a friend to many. She dedicated her life to building a better world not only for herself but for all individuals living with disabilities. Her impact reached across Cuyahoga County, throughout Ohio, and into the hearts of people far beyond.
Bre moved to Cuyahoga County as a young adult with a clear purpose: to turn her aspirations into reality. In 2023, she applied to become a Good Life Ambassador, a role that would become both her platform and her calling. Through this position, Bre delivered hundreds of presentations to schools, organizations, and decision-makers, eloquently sharing her personal journey and advocating for systemic change. Her voice resonated not just because of her story, but because of the sincerity and hope she carried in every word. Bre made people listen—and she made them care.
Always focused on her abilities rather than her limitations, Bre lived by example. She was a competitive swimmer, a college student, and a woman who proudly lived independently. Her resilience and self-advocacy inspired those around her to dream bigger and demand better. Whether she was pushing for inclusive recreation through her work with Youth Challenge, championing accessible infrastructure like universal changing tables, or advocating for policy improvements in Paratransit services, Bre never backed down from a challenge. She used her voice to uplift the voices of others.
Bre developed personal relationships with lawmakers and community leaders, engaging them in difficult conversations about Medicaid, accessibility, and the realities of living with a disability. She was not content to sit on the sidelines when lives and futures were at stake. If there was an opportunity to help, Bre was the first to say “yes.”
What truly set Bre apart was her heart. Her genuine smile, quick wit, and infectious laughter made her someone people loved to be around. She had a special gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. Even as she faced her own challenges, Bre remained steadfastly focused on bringing light into the lives of others.
Bre’s passing is a profound loss not only to her family—her parents, siblings, and loved ones—but also to her colleagues, mentors, and friends within the Cuyahoga DD community. Her fellow Good Life Ambassadors, the Leadership Council, the Community and Workforce Development team, and so many others are grieving this immense loss. Her absence will be deeply felt across every corner of the system she worked so hard to improve.
As we reflect on Bre’s life, we remember her not only for what she accomplished but for who she was: a force of nature, a champion of equity, and a beloved soul whose light burned bright and inspired countless others to reach for their dreams.
Rest in power, Breanna Marguerite Sprenger. Your voice, your joy, and your unwavering spirit will never be forgotten. You were, and always will be, the very best example of living the good life.