Support of my close friend Eric Warren

My close friend from college, Eric, is going through a tough time. His story, in his own words, is below. Please help if you can. Thanks.

A Heartfelt Request for Support

I’m writing this through tears—not because of the physical pain I’m in, but from the embarrassment of needing to ask for help. This past year has been incredibly difficult for my health, leaving me unable to work and financially stretched beyond what I could have imagined.

I’ve been trying to start a small business, which we finally got off the ground, but my health issues have prevented me from working consistently, despite my deep desire to do so. Over the past twelve months, I’ve had three major surgeries:

• The first surgery was for a hole in my colon, and I was going septic.

• Next, I needed a disc replaced in my neck, which kept me from working for even longer.

• Finally, I began experiencing severe pain in my legs and back that soon affected my bladder. After a visit to the ER, I discovered I had a large, non-cancerous tumor around my spine that required immediate surgery. During that procedure, a disc was removed, and I needed a fusion. I was also diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome—a medical emergency where nerve roots at the bottom of the spine are compressed, leading to potential paralysis. Though I was told I’d be paralyzed from the waist down, I’m grateful to have avoided full paralysis, although I have permanent weakness and paralysis in my right foot.

With each surgery, I thought the hardest part was behind me, but the medical bills have become an overwhelming challenge. My savings have been depleted, and because I had to switch insurance companies, I’m facing two high deductibles that I simply can’t afford. My bills are in the tens of thousands, and while I’m on a payment plan, there’s a monthly medication costing over $1,000 that insurance doesn’t cover.

To move forward, I’ll need up to a year to fully recover, and my apartment requires ADA modifications, along with other equipment to aid my mobility—none of which are covered by insurance.

I’m at my wit’s end, both financially and emotionally. If you’re able to donate even a little, it would make an incredible difference in my life and my mental well-being. Your kindness and generosity would be more appreciated than words can express.

If a donation isn’t possible, even a message of support would mean a lot to me right now. And if you’re in the neighborhood, please consider visiting our mom-and-pop tavern, Gio’s in Ravenswood—just stopping by means the world to us.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I’m humbled and grateful for any help, support, or encouragement. Love to all,

Eric