Eric's Journey: Healing and Support Needed

Help Eric Heal: A Journey Through Recovery and Grief

Hi, my name is Lori, and I am Eric’s cousin.  I am reaching out to you on his behalf. On December 23, 2024, Eric's life took an unexpected turn. While trying to bring some much-needed Christmas cheer to his home, he suffered a terrible accident, falling from his roof and shattering his right hip. The injury required two surgeries over the course of December 24th and 27th to repair, and now, Eric faces a long road to recovery that could take six months to a year.

Eric had been trying to lift his family’s spirits after a devastating year. In April, he lost his father, and the very next day, his wife, Shani, learned that her mother’s cancer had returned after 13 years in remission. Shani spent much of 2024 caring for her mother through grueling treatments—chemo, radiation, and surgeries. By the time December came around, Eric was determined to make their home feel a little brighter for the holidays, despite the heavy grief that hung over them.

On the 23rd, with Shani at the hospital supporting her mother, Eric decided to fix some of their rooftop Christmas decorations that had been knocked down by the wind. While coming down from the roof, the ladder slipped, causing the fall that shattered his hip. Since the accident, Eric has explained his injury to those who ask with just four simple words: "roof, ladder, ground, hip."

Tragically, on January 8, Shani's mother passed away, adding another layer of heartache to their lives. As Eric begins his recovery, the financial burden of medical bills, everyday expenses, and raising their 7-year-old son, Malachi, has become overwhelming. Unable to work, and with Florida not offering short-term disability, Eric and Shani are struggling to make ends meet. Long-term disability won’t even begin to help until a year from now, if approved.

Eric never expected to be in this position, but as his cousin I (along with others) suggested starting a GoFundMe campaign to help ease the financial stress. This isn’t about luxury—Eric and his family are simply trying to keep the lights on, put food on the table, and cover essential bills while he heals.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference during this challenging time. Your generosity will give Eric and his family the support they need to focus on healing, both physically and emotionally, without the added worry of financial strain.

Thank you for reading Eric’s story. Your kindness and support [both financially and emotionally] are needed and greatly appreciated.