Support Eric Yeakel through Cancer Treatment

On Tuesday, September 2, our dear friend Eric Yeakel collapsed at home due to a clot in his lungs (pulmonary embolism) which caused him to go into cardiac arrest. Luckily, his wife Erin (Harvey) Yeakel was present and immediately began performing life-saving CPR. Due to her quick actions, and the almost immediate response of the incredible EMTs nearby, he arrived at the hospital in time for emergency care.

After two weeks in the ICU, conducting many tests and procedures, his doctors have determined the probable underlying cause of the blood clots which led to his pulmonary embolism and subsequent cardiac arrest. With so many people pulling for him, it breaks our hearts to share that Eric has cancer. He has a 9 cm mass in his abdomen. The next step for his medical team is to conduct tests that will determine the exact nature of the cancer as well as the best prospective treatment plan.

However, since Eric is relatively new to his current employment with the Dept. of Human Services, he will be losing his insurance coverage in the coming weeks. Erin is working closely with his office and her own to ensure he has coverage and can move quickly into the next steps of treatment, but this is a difficult development that leaves their families in a state of financial uncertainty.

Eric is a beloved son, brother, husband, and friend to so many people. He has touched so many lives through his professional work for Dakota County on behalf of children in vulnerable situations. In his personal life, Eric is an enthusiastic grill master, doting cat father, jazz super-fan, and committed team player in many local soccer leagues. He takes a lot of pride in his garden and in entertaining colleagues, friends and neighbors as both chef and bartender in the Saint Paul home he shares with Erin. His charisma and kindness have made a deep impact on nearly everyone who is lucky enough to meet him.

The events of this medical emergency have also uprooted Erin’s life. Erin is someone who takes care of everyone around her. Whether you are in her blood family or her chosen family, she is someone who will drop everything to be by your side the moment you need her. Together, she and Eric have built a community in Saint Paul, across the country and internationally. Their home has been the host to big celebrations and a refuge for friends and family who needed somewhere soft to land and safe to be.

Eric and Erin are not good at asking for help. For us, their friends, families, and neighbors, they have always been the helpers. They have helped so many of us through our most painful moments, and right now they need us.

Your donation will go toward helping them through this incredibly difficult time, including expenses such as:

The outpouring of love and support for Eric and his loved ones so far has been incredibly moving. For those who have already donated or sent prayers and encouragement, we are deeply grateful. Please continue to offer them and their families emotional and financial support during this trying journey. As we all try to give the most effective assistance possible, know that the best place for updates on Eric's healing journey is through the Caring Bridge site managed by his family. They will try to provide a daily update as possible.

Let’s give back to Eric and Erin, who have brought so much kindness and generosity to all of our lives. Together, we can help lift a heavy burden. Thank you for your support, encouragement, and love.

The Friends and Family of Eric Yeakel