We are friends, colleagues, and mentees of Fred Lau.

As many of you know, Fred suffered a head injury from a fall at his home on Whidbey Island on October 6. He has had major brain surgery at a hospital in Everett, WA and has been in very grave condition. As of this writing (October 12), the doctors are seeing encouraging signs on the MRI and think that Fred will be able to recover even if there may be some impairments. We are now cautiously optimistic, but the recovery and rehab will take many months.

Needless to say, this has been a true nightmare for Heather—especially since Fred has just recently retired and moved to Washington to start a new phase of their life, finally together in their beautiful home on Whidbey Island after years of living across the ocean and traveling back and forth.

Given that Fred's recovery and rehabilitation will be for the long haul, there will surely be medical and other expenses beyond what the insurance covers. We know that many of you are desperately wanting to show support for Fred and Heather and have been frustrated by the physical distance preventing us from offering hugs. Here is a concrete way in which we can all help. Heather is touched by our offer, and our expression of love and support means a lot to her.

Please give any amount you feel comfortable with so that we can help with Fred's recovery and give Heather some comfort. We all look forward to seeing Fred's vivacious, goofy self soon.

Yuan-Yu Kuan

Margaret Sarkissian

Ricardo D. Trimillos

Christine R. Yano

Mari Yoshihara