CORY'S STORY
The Heart Behind Handle Hard Better
Cory Wiederin was a devoted husband, an extraordinary dad, a loyal friend, and the true Handle Hard Better Champion.
Although Cory has passed away, the way he loved, lived, and cared for others continues to make an impact. His strength, humility, quick wit, and fierce devotion to his family are the heart behind the Handle Hard Better Foundation.
Making
EVERY DAY COUNT
On March 25, 2025, Cory made it his mission to play catch with the boys every single day.
It was a simple commitment with a powerful purpose: to slow down, be intentional, stay present, and create memories together.
Each game of catch became more than a daily activity. It became an expression of Cory’s love for his family and a reminder that meaningful moments are often found in the ordinary things we choose to do together.
Family
WAS EVERYTHING
Family was everything to Cory.
He was the ultimate life coach and dad to his sons, Kellen and Beckett. Whether he was coaching them, fishing, building Legos, going to the movies, or playing catch, Cory was happiest when he was with Brittany and the boys.
He gave his family an unmatched sense of security and protection. He loved Brittany in a way that made her feel like a queen, and he would have done anything for his sons.
For Cory, being together was what mattered most.
Unforgettable
FIRST PITCH
On August 15, 2025, one of Cory’s bucket-list dreams came true when he threw out the first pitch at a Chicago Cubs game.
More than 100 friends and family members were there to cheer him on, and Kellen and Beckett joined their dad in the catch.
It was more than a first pitch. It was a celebration of Cory, his family, the community surrounding them, and the memories they created together.
What it Means to
HANDLE HARD BETTER
Handling hard better does not mean pretending that difficult things are easy. It does not mean always feeling strong, finding the perfect words, or carrying everything alone.
Sometimes strength means allowing your community to hold you up.
Sometimes it means searching for beauty when beauty feels impossible to find.
Sometimes it simply means slowing down, being present, and making meaningful memories with the people you love.
That is the example Cory left for us.
Carrying Cory's Legacy Forward
The Handle Hard Better Foundation was created to honor Cory’s life, carry his legacy forward, and pay forward the love and support his family received.
Through Cory’s story, the foundation hopes families facing an unimaginable season will feel seen, understood, supported, and loved.
Every family supported, every meaningful memory made, and every act of community allows Cory’s impact to continue.