Achi news desk-
In a story of discovery and connection, two musicians from southern Ontario found themselves not only united by music, but by blood, thanks to DNA testing.
At age 14, Brian Fontez of Hamilton, now 37, discovered he had fathered through a sperm donor. His journey to uncover his genetic roots lasted decades, until advances in technology allowed him to undergo a DNA test in 2019. That moment led him to his biological father, who revealed he had a half-sister named Erica Yost, 61.
“He was kind in answering all my questions,” recalls Fontez.
The discovery prompted Fontez to contact Yost on Facebook with a message introducing himself. It read in part: “We share a natural passion for music. But we also share something that makes this coincidence even more fascinating to me… DNA. I’m actually your little brother.”
Their initial meeting revealed that they shared more than DNA, but a deep love of music.
“We both do multiple instruments, multiple things and multiple styles,” Yost said. “We can totally read each other, what the other is going to do.”
Since their reunion, Fontez and Yost have embraced the closeness of their musical family, harmonizing their talents and exchanging creative sparks.
“This experience was really rewarding and fulfilling. It was amazing to meet new friends in my family. I’m happy and proud to have found people who feel the same way,” Pontez said.
DNA testing has since revealed three more half-siblings, but there may be others.
“There could be up to 20 more offspring, and we won’t really know until they pass the test,” Pontez said.
A unique BOND INSPIRES book
Their unique bond and musical chemistry has now inspired award-winning author Eric Walters to create a novel called The Club.
Through the fictional story of two teenagers brought together by music and the discovery of family ties, Walters aims to illuminate the themes of happiness, joy and hope that resonate in Pontez and Yost’s true narrative.
“Look at Brian and Erica, they’re grateful for what they found,” Walters said. “For them to normalize it, for other people to understand how wonderful it is, they are part of what I want this story to be.”
Honored to serve as inspiration for Walters’ book, Fontez and Yost hope their story will encourage others to embrace their curiosity.
“It’s okay to be curious and take a test to get answers. I don’t think it’s ever healthy not to ask questions and leave things as they should be,” Pontez said.
Award-winning author Eric Walters to create a novel called “The Club” based on the unique story of siblings Erica Yost and Brian Pontz. (Sijia Liu/CTV News Kitchener)
