In 2004, Erik was diagnosed with an operable brain tumor of the type Astrocytoma, which in its early stages required invasive surgery. He was symptom free for a few years afterward, but by 2010 the tumor was back, more aggressively this time, so he was fortunately accepted as a patient at UW. The doctors took an aggressive course of treatment, which included another surgery and, as the tumor returned post-op, two types of radiation. After this treatment he was able to return to the work he loved, serving people in a number of restaurants in the Tacoma area. The restaurant jobs that he had had in 2004 did not offer health insurance; this forced him into medical bankruptcy. From then on Erik’s health and well-being would be dependent upon Medicaid coverage.

In August of 2017, Erik started having symptoms again. We all thought they were seizures and a slow return of the tumor. He experienced weakness on his right side and some difficulty walking. After a few ER visits, the UW doctors decided to open the brain again. On February 9th, 2018, he had his 3rd craniotomy.

As of today - Erik can still speak and interact, but the long term radiation damage is irreversible. He has lost the abilities to use his arms and legs and can no longer see. He needs the kind of care that a skilled nursing facility can provide and has been living in Agility Health & Rehabilitation in Tacoma for many years.

We are all so grateful for your generous donations 7 years ago - those funds have made an enormous impact in Erik’s quality of life. They allowed us to purchase an access van which is enormous! So now his family and friends can take him to doctor’s appointments and trips back home, and occasional day trips for lunch at Red Hot on 6th Avenue. He also gets tacos on Tuesdays and a burger on Fridays, courtesy of Sylvia & Jeremy (plus a lot of home cooking on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays). All these things are literally life changing for him and have kept his mind super sharp – he’s fully engaged in the world and will make you laugh if you get time to hang with him.

Erik has been such a champ for all these years – despite being confined to a hospital bed, unable to see and unable to walk or use his right arm, he remains one of the most positive, kind and engaged people I know. He loves a visit or a talk on the phone, and he listens to news reports and podcasts and is always ready to talk through the events of the day. Spend 20 minutes talking to him and you will more than likely ask yourself “why do I ever complain about anything, ever?” The guy is an inspiration – a true pillar of positivity.

Unfortunately, the money from the last campaign is nearly gone. And so we’re asking once again for a contribution of whatever amount you feel comfortable. This new round will go towards covering dental visits, meals, occasionally outings and a few other things that keep Erik happy and his mind engaged.

If you are unable to make a financial contribution please consider visiting Erik with a meal or connecting with him through the Alexa Ap - he loves a good chat (text Tina for details: [phone redacted]).

The main message here is though, THANK YOU very much for taking part in keeping the family more financially secure during a difficult time. You are all really and truly the best.