On May 26th our friend Ernesto was rushed to Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital due to a medical emergency, and was inpatient there while in recovery until June 2nd. He is home now, and, I’m thrilled to say, in high spirits, but the incident has left him in a very dire financial situation. Between lost wages due to his inability to work while hospitalized and over the upcoming weeks as he heals, plus medical expenses already incurred (an ambulance ride and ER visit alone amount to a monumental sum, not to mention the hospital stay and aftercare, it's a lot) he’s in more than a tight spot right now. If you know Ernesto, you know that he would hate to ask for help, but with his blessing I’m reaching out to the community to hopefully ease this burden and help him stay afloat in the aftermath of a very difficult time.

Many of you know him as a supremely talented musician, absolute chess wizard, insanely skilled programmer, and someone super excited to teach these things to anyone who asks (or doesn’t!). But you would also know him as a kind and caring friend who always gives more of himself than he ever expects in return, and an incredibly devoted and loving father to his son.

I first met Ernesto in 2001 when a mutual friend introduced us, with the notion that we might like to play music together. He was right, and we forged a close friendship and started a band that would come to define our lives over the next ten years and beyond. He has always been there for me whenever I needed a hand, and the same probably goes for most folks in his orbit. Now he needs our help.

*I am collecting these funds on behalf of Ernesto Gianola, and all donations will be transferred directly to him in full, less any transaction fees imposed by GoFundMe. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Thanks!