ORLANDO, Fla. – Bryan “Vladek” Hasel has been missing for a little over three years.

“He was amazing. He had the heart of gold. If he could give the shirt off his back, he would,” said his sister, Irena Hasel.

Vladek went missing in November 2021 and was last spotted around The Place at Alafaya apartment complex near UCF. Since then, News 6 has covered several efforts from his family and friends trying to bring him home.

Bethany Hasel, also Vlad’s sister, describes the experience as a rollercoaster of emotions.

“There are some days where it’s hard to keep going,” she said.

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Christy Burton, who is helping the family search for Vladek, explains their efforts to News 6.

“We drop the cards and fliers in truck stops. Roll of tape in the back pocket, put them up on doors. We put them up on boards, in the bathrooms on mirrors. Anywhere at eye level where someone may see his card,” Burton said.

To honor Vladek’s memory, the family and friends are celebrating his 26th birthday by collecting blankets, hygiene kits, and more to give to those in need.

“It’s through advocates that are here with me today and so many online, who have supported my family and helped us through the dark days. So many people online from different parts of the country have donated via Amazon to supply what you see here today,” Bethany Hasel shared.

Vladek’s family says he often shared meals and spoke with people in the homeless community, and they want to ensure his giving heart is not forgotten.

“It really keeps the hope alive for me thinking of my brother. We’re doing something good for the community because of him,” Irena Hasel said.

The family plans to give all of the items away Monday to the Samaritan Resource Center. If you also want to help out, they have an Amazon wish list that you can find here.

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