Fund Raiser

Hi Eric,
I am putting together the paperwork for a couple of fund raisers that are happening in the near future.
Thinking good, positive thoughts for you...Cheryl

Wassup

Susan is on her way to see you tonight and I am at home with the kids. I just wanted to drop you a note to let you know I am thinking about you and how you are doing.......

The kids also wanted to make sure I let you know they are thinking about you as well.

Talk to you soon

JS

Hi Eric

Just want to say helloi. Hope you are settling well into your temp care place to heal up. I think of you often and am absolutely positive that you are getting better every day and ready for rehab soon where you will blow everyone away.

Keep up the positive energy and continue to inspire us all, you amazing person!

Hope to see you soon.

Connie

Just saying Hi

Hi there Eric!
Just thinking of you and sending you a warm hello.

Love,
Mana

Sending Love and Healing Light

Hi Eric!

I was just thinking of you this morning. I hope you are healing well and I am hoping even more to get to come down and see you soon! Keep me posted on when you are comfortable getting visitors.

Love,
Mana

I can't tell you

Hey Eric,

I can't tell you how happy I was to see your name pop up on my cell phone on Saturday. I think I acted like a kid at Christmas. Hearing your voice was great - it's been too long. Sorry I didn't get to talk for long. I'll make up for it soon.

Talking to you was the highlight of my weekend. I can't wait to come visit when you get settled into your new place. Again, let me know if you need anything.

Love,
Marcy

support from Vegas children

Eric, I just wanted to tell you how you're in the thoughts and prayers of children here in Las Vegas.

Today I went to Andy & Laura's school to tell 3rd Graders a story. This is the class I visit each week and they have been praying for you since the day after your surgery.

Before I had a chance to start the story, one of the girls asked 'How is Eric doing?' I gave them a quick update and will fill them in more tomorrow, including reading from part of your post.

I hope you're doing well.
Bob

Good Morning, Eric!

Just a quick note to say Good Morning! Heading to my water aerobics class shortly sporting a new pattern of Kinesio tape. This time I have it running from armpit to armpit (or more technical term would be axilla to axilla). Eddy said it isn't as body art looking as the stuff I had running up my arm. Looking forward to getting colored tape instead of the medical looking beige stuff.

Sending you healing thoughts and positive energy from Santa Cruz! Should be crazy with traffic here today since the weather is going to be hot and there are a ton of events going on around the area.

Time to find my towel and suit!
Cheryl Gorham

bummer -- but just temporary

Eric, your post last week was tremendous!

As it turns out, you were having surgery when I was giving a talk to a Bible study group and I know most of them kept you in their prayers; I was scheduled to talk to them again last Monday and happily shared not only the good news of the success of the surgery, but your marvelous letter.

I was sorry to learn of this setback to beginning rehab, but coming to understand you better from that letter, I'm sure this will be just a temporary setback for you.

Bob

Thinking of you

Hi Eric,

Hope you are having a good day today. I have been sending you a lot of good thoughts and quick little prayers so you can heal up quickly and get started with rehab soon.

It was so encouraging to see your post. You are unbelievably upbeat and practical and I really respect and admire your attitude and determination. And you have an amazing amount of friends and family surrounding you with all our positive energy.

I do have some news to tell you but I will wait until I come visit. :)

Can't wait to see you. Take care,

Connie

What a trip!

Tonight I took Susan and the girls to see the Dead......It was great. Marin wants to play Guitar and Ayden just loved the entire scene. Susan was right at home and just happy to treat the girls to a little of her past.

Halfway through the show I got a text from a number I recognized and it was Shahin. He was there and we connected for a drink. Wow, it was great. I was happy to meet up as we hadn't seen him since being up at the hospital the day of your big surgery.

It was great to see him in good spirits and even better to know that you are in good hands. We are all lucky to carry our good friends with us and Shahin is pretty damn special!

Hope to see you soon......We keep you in our thoughts moment by moment......

Justin, Susan, Ayden, and Marin

Just checking in...

Whazzup!! So, what's the latest scoop? Are you back in Silicon Valley yet? You're going to need a revolving door and a ticket machine outside your room with all the visitors you're going to have coming to see you. The nurses are going to think you're a celebrity or something. :o) Be prepared for them to ask for your autograph, and take advantage every chance you get!! HEE!

I am confident that you're feeling better every day that passes. You're also going to have those days when you want to throw your hands up in the air and just quit. And you know what, that's OK. You know it will only be temporary before you say to yourself "what the heck am I doing?". Don't forget you're human, and will have emotions that you never thought exisited. Yeah, you heard me right, you're human. Who would of thunk, eh? :o)

Hope to see you soon. Keep fighting and stay strong.
Michele

So great to hear from you!

Hola!

It is so great to hear from you, Eric. Ever the realist! ;0)

The path to recovery may be a long one but I am positive you will beat all odds! So, keeping that in mind, settle down in your new abode and let me know when you are up for a visit. I can't wait to see you....

BTW, you'll get a kick out of this - remember when we met for lunch the week before your new job and discussed various ways to get me out of my traffic ticket? Well, I went for the court hearing, all prepared to out-wit the cop, and he never showed!! 

More when we meet.

Hugs!

Supriya

Hey Bud

Hi Eric
It was great to read your update.... To hear that you won't need the second surgery and that you will be going to a Hospital closer to home. Your attitude is totally amasing and it uplifted me as I am sure it did for everyone that read it. Let me know if I can help in any way and once you get internet access send me an email. You are in my thoughts everyday.
-Neil

Hi Eric

Hi Eric ...
Sorry it has taken so long for me to show up - this will not surprise you - it took me THIS LONG to figure out how to actually contribute to your blog ... What would I ever do without you and Shahin to walk me through the technology challenges in my life?

I loved reading your message from Friday, and was so happy to hear from YOU. We all love you and miss you - you have been present in so many people's thoughts and prayers constantly. It was great to hear you did not have to have that second surgery, and that you will be down here in Santa Clara much sooner that initially expected. Get ready for visitors!!!

Michelle's post cracked me up, I was thinking the same thing about your PT - I thought "hope she's cute!" - well, I hoped for you, I might feel sorry for her. he he

It is remarkable for me to read these posts - and the impact you have had on so many lives. You have been the one who has set such a great example, though the way you live your life, of determination, rising above adversity and beating the odds - and once again, you go before us. I know you are strong and I know you will find a way of making the best of your situation, whatever that might be. But I also know you will have days where you don't feel much like rising above much more than your sheets. On those days in particular, remember you have a community of people who are here and who want to help you in whatever way you need it - many of whom would be thrilled to return a small bit of the help, advice or humor that you once extended to them.

Shahin, thank you for setting up these great ways for us to stay informed and in touch with Eric ... you're the best. Eric, I hope to see you soon, when you are ready.

Warmly,
Kirstin

Woo Hoo!!

Eric,

WOW!! It's so great to hear directly from you. Thank you so much for letting us all know (in your own words) how you're doing, and what the future looks like. I am sure it was not easy writing such a letter, but it is much appreciated.

Your letter was exactly as I would have expected it to be; honest, direct, and positive. I always think that is the best way to face a challenge. Like I always say, you're a fighter and one who would never give up!! Whatever happens you will continue to live your life the way you always thought you would. It might include a few changes, but that is OK. Life is full of change, and once we embrace that fact, life is good!! If we all only had a teeny bit of your strength, we'd be better off, too. :o)

I am so happy knowing that you'll be moving to Santa Clara soon. Yippie! Are you really prepared to have so many people in your face all day? HA HA!! I think you'll need to set up a video recorder and simply press "play"whenever a new visitor stops by...you know we'll all be asking the same questions. HEE! But you know it's only because we care and love you, and want to do whatever we can to help you through this difficult time.

With that being said, please let me know if you would like any reading materials or something else to help occupy your time. I know you hate TV and don't want you going bonkers in there. :o)

I'm off for now, but know that I'm thinking about you lots. I have many people praying for you and sending their positive energy your way.

Hope to see you soon,
Michele

We've been shopping!

Hi Eric - Mom said you would need some zip front sweatshirt type things for the rehab place, so Laura and I picked up two today. We also had a contest to see who could find the most annoying "Get Well" cards - I think I won but you can be the judge. We'll stick it all in a box and send it to the Spinal Unit. I'm glad to read your post - that's the person I know, love and respect. Assess the situation, develop a plan and then fight like H$&#. Can't wait to see you! If there's anything else you need or want, please don't hesitate to post and one of us will get 'er done. Love you, Renee and the kids

Good to read your words

Hi Eric,
It was so good to read an entry from you on how you are doing! I have aligned my hope with yours in that this is a diagnosis for now and I have faith that no matter what happens you will walk through to the other side. I am planning a trip down to Shahin's to visit when you are moved to Santa Clara.

Tu fekreh man-nee
Mana

Hey Eric - Just wanted to let you know you are in our thoughts. A bunch of us look forward to being able to visit once you get down to Santa Clara.

Hi Eric, Very glad to hear that you are doing OK things to consider. I came to see you on the day after your surgery and met some of you friends. They are grat people. Shahin is a hero. Last week was very difficult and I want to say How thankful I am that you have good people around you. We had a good couple of days at Thunder Hill at the beginning of the week. It was very difficult to get motivated to get there, but I am glad I went. You came up a lot with a lot of instructors and we are all pulling for you and sending you all the good energy we can. I am glad you get to move to Santa Clare and start you rehab program. an d that means we can come and see you. Keep up the streangth and the positive additude. Cant't wait to come visit. Stay strong. Talk soon, Michael.

Tea!

Hey Eric,

I am so glad to hear about the progress you've made but it comes as no surprise. You're a trooper! Just know that you are enclosed by caring thoughts, heartfelt wishes and tons of loving friends/family.

I am looking forward to seeing you soon and enjoying a cup of tea together! 

Feel better hugs!

Supriya

YIPPIE KAI EH!!

What great news, Eric. I'm so happy for you!! I'm sure hot tea never tasted so good before. We're all keeping our fingers and toes crossed that you will be able to move to Santa Clara sooner rather than later. And if not, well, we all know you will be there soon.

Whew, what a relief knowing your PT is cute!! I am sure at times you want to beat the bloody pulp out of her, but you can't, cause she's good to look at. Lucky her! HA HA!

It truly sounds like you're proving us all right. You are fighting and seeing this as just another challenge that you will overcome. Good for you. There are so many people in your court cheering you on from the sidelines. Keep your spirits up, and all the positive energy being sent your way will work its magic on you.

Take care & keep fighting,
Michele

Yipppppy!

Good Morning, Eric!
I bet clear fluids never tasted better! Hospital food is known to be horrible, but broth, tea and jello are pretty hard to screw up. Bottoms up!!!!

So glad to hear you may not be having that second surgery and can move to Santa Clara soon. You are on the road to recovery, it might have some twists, turns and a few bumps but you are moving forward.

Sending healing thoughts and positive energy your way.
Cheryl Gorham

Everyday Life

The best part about this blog is that it seems that Susan and I are not alone in thinking about you as we go through our day to day life!!!!!!

I love the blog about the kids loving the jello. Funny!

What this means is we carry you with us minute by minute as all good friends should.

See ya soon

JS

Yay for Clear Fluids Day!

Hey Eric,

I'm so excited that you may not have to have a second surgery and can be moved to Santa Clara soon! Hope you can enjoy more hot tea, broth and, of course, good ol' jello.

You continue to amaze me with your progress. I'm praying and sending lots of positive energy your way (I'm trying to cover all areas with both the pagan side and the Catholic side). :)

Marcy

Blog Hog... But So Excited

Hi Eric,
I feel like a total Blog Hog, but I had to post again because I am so excited to hear you may bypass a second surgery and come down to Santa Clara!! Many prayers from all over San Francisco have been said for you. I continue to send you light and hope and strength. Enjoy your tea and jello and see you soon!

Mana

Prayers from "Sin City"

Hi Eric:

This isn’t your sister, but her friend, Bob.

I only met you twice (I prefer not to count when you arrived for Laura’s First Communion and I slapped you on your shoulder in greeting, not knowing it was injured – d’oh!), but I enjoyed both times – the Thanksgiving buffet in Vegas and touring San Francisco. I appreciated your insights to eBay as well as your generosity in picking up the checks!

You’ve been in my thoughts and prayers each day, but even more importantly, you’re in the prayers of 3rd Graders and Kindergartners I work with.

The updates from Shahin are wonderful – I look forward to them throughout the day. (Regarding today’s, I was taught by the tea expert herself – your sister – to make sure you steep the teabag for at least 5 minutes!)

I look forward to seeing you again!
Bob

Hey from Las Vegas

Hi Eric - I'm so glad you had a good day today! The kids are especially happy about the jello. We'll keep our fingers crossed for you the rest of the week. Things are headed the right way. Love you, Renee and the kids

Tuesday Hope

Hi Eric,
As I was walking to work today I had a sudden overwhelming sense that you are being taken care of. I knew at that moment that you will walk through this experience and show those of us around you the wisdom, courage and power that you have taped into. I am sending you more love and healing light.
Love,
Mana

Hope you are feeling better

Susan and I have been thinking about you all the time and just hope that your spirits are lifted by all the care and concern from your friends down here. It must be a little strange to be far from home, but just know that you have touched the lives of so many people with your loyalty, honesty, and genuine friendship and we are all here to stand by you in the same way that you have stood by us.

I keep coming back to all these hokie clichés but they all kind of fit right now. I know the road to recovery will be hard for you, but I can't think of someone else that is stronger and more up for any challenge.

We can't wait to see you!!!!

Justin, Susan, Ayden, and Marin.

Note From Connie

Hi Eric,

I am so glad to hear that you sat up and did some physical therapy. You have always been a strong willed, persistent and determined person and I know you will do whatever it takes to get yourself better.

Please know that you have so many friends who love you and will stand behind you in helping out as needed in the months to come.

You have also been a great friend to me through the years and if there is anything I can do please do not hesitate to ask.

I will come to see you when you are ready, but for now, please know that my prayers and positive thoughts are with you often, throughout the day. I also know that many many others are sending good vibes your way.

Take care,

Connie

Hey, Eric:

If anybody is going to fight like hell to get back on their feet, it's you!! You have been one of the most upbeat people that can always see a light at the end of the tunnel. Geez, did I spill my life's woes with you at times. UGH!! You always helped me through them, and I thank you! :o)

I know you hate it, but it is now time for you to accept help from others. So many people are here for you!! Is there any book that you've been wanting to read? I spoke with the Barnes & Noble folks, but I still can't figure out what you'd like. How about magazines? Hmmm, anything you have in mind?

Just remember that while life's experiences may be challenging at times, you will come out stronger, tougher and much wiser afterwards. Please know that positive energy and prayers are being sent your way each and every day. And it is quite obvious from a lot of people. Now get your butt better, so I can visit you to give you a real piece of my mind!! HA HA!! Need to add a teeny bit of humor, right? :o)

Thinking of you,
Michele

Hey Eric

Eric,

I am happy to hear that you have been getting some much needed rest. I think about you every day. You've always been there for me so I'll be happy to do whatever you need to help you through this.

You are an amazing man and one of the strongest people I know. You have a lot of people pulling for you. It's been great to see how many friends care about you since I think you once told me that you were your own island.

I love you and am sending healing thoughts and energy your way.

Marcy

Hi Eric, from Las Vegas

Hi Eric - The kids and I send you lots of love. I'll be up to see you over Memorial Day weekend. You're on my mind constantly and I'll be thinking about you as you go through this next week. I know you'll get through this and you'll make a happy, meaningful life for yourself afterwards - as independent as possible. You've always amazed everyone with what you can achieve. I love you and am there with you in spirit. I'm checking Shahin's blog twice daily and keeping the kids informed of your progress. They plan on bombarding you with letters and pictures as soon as you get to the rehab place. Let Shahin know if I can bring you anything special from Vegas. Love, Renee

Eric,

I am so happy to hear you are getting rest and starting to heal from the first surgery. I am ready to come and visit whenever you are well enough to have me there. I know you are strong and have made it through many things and that this too will just become another part of your story. In the meantime, I am sending you love and healing thoughts and energy.

Mana

Eric,
I am still chuckling to myself about the kiss on your hand....and you thought it was Eddy! I know I said this to you already, but I am going to say it again.....we are ready and willing to assist you any way possible (and help Shanin). Looking forward to your move from Santa Rosa to Santa Clara in the near future.
Cheryl Gorham

(this is Rick Ross)

Yo brother! As usual, I've got no brilliant words of advice here. You've got a hard road ahead of you, but that's never stopped you before. You'll come out of this as well as anyone I've ever known could.

The SoCal bros are racking their brains looking for a way to help out. Anything you need? Maybe some art supplies for while you are there? Books? Tell Todd or Helga and I'll handle it.

Get better soon, Johnny and I want to come up and say hi when you are ready.

Message from Ethan

Hey buddy,

We are so excited to see your progress! Shahin just posted that you are sleeping finally -- keep it up! Hopefully you can stay awake long enough to read this ;) I'll try to keep the rambling to a minimum.

As you know there are about a million people out there pulling for you. (Isn't it strange that a guy who styles himself as the "loner" is the most popular guy in town?) Somehow you've managed to consistently be both the smartest and most lovable guy in the room ad you've touched a lot of lives. It's pretty impressive.

I know you can feel all the positive energy coming your way, I just thought I'd remind you about everyone out there that you can't see right now. We're all pulling for you to have a speedy recovery.

- Ethan

Many of Eric's friends want to see him in the hospital, but that is not the best thing for his recovery right now... so, I thought I would create this blog to give you all a chance to right Eric a note. It is not as good as seeing him in person, but we will read the notes you post to him in hopes that all of the positive energy your all sending with brighten his days.

- Shahin