Eric Riston and his sister Heather were raised on Baker Avenue in Wynantskill by their loving parents, Tom and Judy Riston. A 1987 graduate of Gardner-Dickinson, Eric is a devoted father to his 15-year-old daughter, Willow. He now lives in Mechanicville, while his mother still resides in Wynantskill and his sister remains nearby. The Riston family has deep roots in the community—Tom, who sadly passed away unexpectedly in November 2022, was a dedicated member of the Wynantskill Fire Department and a well-known figure in town.

Around that same time in 2022, Eric began experiencing unexplained health issues. He was constantly fatigued, struggled with everyday tasks, and felt generally unwell. Despite numerous doctor visits and tests, answers remained elusive, leaving Eric and his family searching for clarity as his condition quietly worsened.

In February 2024, Eric unexpectedly passed out at work and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors quickly discovered critically high ammonia levels in his system. After a series of urgent tests, Eric received a life-changing diagnosis: non-alcoholic stage 4 cirrhosis of the liver. His only chance of survival—a liver transplant.

By April, Eric began intensive treatment at Westchester Medical Center. On June 2nd, he was officially added to the transplant list. Since then, life has been a whirlwind of constant medical testing, shifting medications, and regular trips—sometimes multiple times a month— to Westchester, just to keep him stable. Sometimes, requiring hotel stays while he received treatments.

On May 8th, 2025, the call finally came: a liver was available.

Eric and his mom, Judy, immediately drove to the hospital. By 2:30 a.m., Eric was in surgery. The transplant lasted seven hours—and he made it through with incredible strength. The very next day, we saw glimpses of the cheerful, bright-eyed Eric we all know and love. His color returned, his smile reappeared, and for a moment, it felt like we could all breathe again.

But just days later, an ultrasound revealed a serious complication—no blood flow in a vital artery. Eric was rushed back into surgery. What was expected to be a short procedure turned into another grueling five-hour operation. He spent six days in the ICU before being moved to the transplant recovery floor.

Now, Eric is still in the hospital recovering. He’s facing new challenges, including allergic reactions to medications, but his spirit remains strong.

For the next 4–6 weeks, Eric will stay near Westchester Medical Center under close supervision, making frequent hospital visits. He and Judy have rented an apartment at a hotel near the hospital to make this possible.

We’ve created this GoFundMe to help Eric manage the enormous and ongoing financial burden of this journey—covering medical bills, vital medications, food, and temporary housing while away from home.

If you’re able to contribute, any amount will make a difference. If you’re not in a position to give, please consider sharing Eric’s story to help spread the word.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and support during this time.