YouTuber Brandon Buckingham is facing accusations of “faking” his hospitalization after a viral video questioned his medical equipment — even as he remains in the ICU and a GoFundMe campaign for his medical expenses has raised over $311,000.
According to Buckingham’s own account on his fundraising page, he woke up four days earlier “not knowing where I was, completely deaf, my feet were swollen and I was in severe pain.”
He said he was diagnosed with acute systolic heart failure, kidney failure, liver failure, and complications from pneumonia, with doctors initially considering sepsis or tuberculosis as possible causes.
He noted that doctors now do not believe he currently has tuberculosis, but confirmed that his heart is still failing, and his other organs remain in “very rough shape.”
What Brandon Buckingham Said in His GoFundMe Statement
In a long emotional message, Buckingham explained his personal situation:
- He has an 11-month-old baby
- His wife stays home to care for their child
- His recovery, if successful, “will be long and difficult”
- He expects significant financial hardship
He wrote: “I don’t know what’s going to happen to me, but I know for sure if I do survive, it will be a very long recovery… I will not be able to provide for my family for at least several months.”
Buckingham said his medical bills have already exceeded $100,000, and that he may need heart medication for the rest of his life.
A cardiology specialist reportedly told him he may be on bedrest for 2 to 4 months as he recovers.
Where Did the ‘Fake’ Hospitalization Claims Come From?
The accusations began after a YouTube video claimed Buckingham’s wires appeared to be unplugged — suggesting the setup was staged.
However, viewers quickly debunked the claim, noting that:
- IV pumps can run on batteries
- Equipment placement varies based on patient needs
- The video misinterpreted standard hospital devices
Rumors about Buckingham’s death also circulated online, but there is no evidence supporting those claims.
Latest Health Update from Brandon Buckingham
On November 26, Buckingham uploaded a new update:
- Liver and kidney function are improving
- Lungs show early signs of recovery
- Heart is still failing, forcing him to remain in the ICU
- Doctors are attempting multiple medications to stabilize his heart and get it pumping “semi normally again”
Despite online speculation, Buckingham emphasized that he is still fighting and remains hopeful.
