On July 23, Eric did something very brave and courageous.  He intervened after witnessing a man in the process of beating up two women. 

As Eric was subduing him, the assailant pulled a knife and stabbed him twice. The knife (4-6 inch long blade) punctured his lung and (fortunately) got stuck in his body. His lung collapsed. 

As of today, Eric has been in the hospital, under an alias (for his safety), for 15 days and has undergone four surgeries. There have been a few set-backs but he's improving.   We are hoping he will be released this week, so he can REALLY start to mend.

Eric has been practicing wrestling and marshal arts his whole life, and holds a state championship title in judo. He's has been coaching judo for  many years, and currently volunteers with Higher Ground, a program that encourages kids to see their own potential.

As you can imagine, the cost of a 15 day stay and four surgeries is astronomical. He's given so much to the community and was hurt while trying to help. We're hoping that now Eric can get some help in return.