Brian Bender was a senior software engineer for over two decades and his sphere of work focused on interface engines. Integration engines are a collection of software programs that process data exchanges between numerous applications and Mr. Bender’s continues to be employed by the largest title company in the United States. Through his innovative software engineering he helped his company avoid third-party system charges, which translated to savings of millions in cost. Today, every Fidelity title and escrow order across the United States touches Mr. Bender’s integration engines. Tragically, Mr. Bender was diagnosed with ALS in November of 2017 and subsequently stopped coding in February of 2018 when he was no longer able to use his hands.
Mr. Bender’s love for software extends beyond his professional life. Software robotics and micro-controllers became pastime hobbies for him. He programmed these compressed micro-computers to control functions of a variety of gadgets, including home appliances and robotics. Not surprisingly, his home became the internet of things (IoT) which is a technical term that describes the software and processing ability of items, within his living space.
Subsequent to his ALS diagnosis, he set off to travel the world with his only daughter, Cassidy Bender, and their journey commenced in Asia. His ex-wife, Dr. Hermine Bender, joined them in their journey, in Europe, and the three of them traveled together until Mr. Bender’s legs gave out. After their travels both offered to be Mr. Bender’s caretaker in California moving forward.
Today, Mr. Bender uses a ventilator to breathe, a hoyer lift to move, a power wheelchair to navigate his environment. He enjoys watching educational videos, reading the Bible, and spending time with his family and dog.
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