My cousin Eric was always my hero growing up. When we were little I used to chase him around to give him hugs calling him ‘Ick’ because I couldn’t say Eric. When I needed an emergent liver transplant in 2011 my cousin was the first to offer part of his. In my case I was too sick and needed a whole liver. After my transplant Eric was a proud registered donor on his license. Unfortunately, a few years later he lost his battle with addiction and became an organ donor to 5 strangers. Eric was not without his flaws but he loved hard and stood by his beliefs. My cousin Eric will be remembered as a hero who selflessly saved 5 strangers. I take comfort in knowing only knowing that he is no longer in pain, but that he knows more than anyone what he did for those strangers and their loved ones. Always my hero.
