Artist in Crisis: Help Eric Cook Heal & Create

Hello, my name is Eric Cook, and I am a full-time, independent artist living and working in New York City. I have been creating and sharing my art with the community since 2016, selling my work year-round at Washington Square Park to locals and tourists alike.

Recently, I underwent complex oral surgery to extract six teeth, including two extremely impacted wisdom teeth. Although the procedure was successful, there was much more infection than anticipated, and my doctor prescribed an aggressive antibiotic regimen. The first two weeks of recovery were good but the sleep deprivation made it impossible to focus on day-to-day work, like... anything.

In addition, the surgery left a perforation between my mouth and sinus, complicating my healing and recovery and potentially leading to further procedures to minimize infection in the future.

The full recovery is about six to eight weeks to allow proper healing in the sinus perforation and the many sutures. This means that I have not been able to show my art in Washington Square Park or attend any community events for the last month, and am on a lighter schedule for the next few weeks. Unfortunately, vending my art represents 75% of my total income and personal revenue, and without this income, I will face substantial economic difficulties.

The ongoing medical work will continue for at least the next six months and is estimated to cost between $15,000-$20,000, which my insurance will not cover. I need additional support to cover my medical and living expenses for the next two months.

I am reaching out beyond my social network for help during this difficult time. The pandemic and inflation have already created economic challenges for many people in New York City, and I understand that everyone may be facing their own struggles. However, any support you can provide, no matter how small, would make a significant difference in my ability to cover my medical and living expenses.

I am optimistic about the future and the prospects of earning a sustainable income from my art. I believe that my art has the potential to bring joy and inspiration to many people.

So, here's what I'm asking you to do. I am asking for your help to cover my medical costs and living expenses for two months. Your support will allow me to focus on my healing and recovery without the added stress of financial insecurity.

If you haven't already, please donate. Every little bit helps, and I'm grateful for anything you can offer. If you prefer to know more about my work, sign up to support my work through Patreon, and check out my Etsy store and buy one of my unique pieces of art... or even consider donating crypto.

Please consider sharing my story with your friends and family, or purchasing my artwork online. Any assistance you can provide will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for your consideration. Together, we can overcome this difficult time and build a brighter future.