For Erdie Garcia

Dear Friend,

At some point in our lives, we shared a cherished friendship with our mutual friend, Ernesto “Erdie” Garcia III. It might have been in high school or college or maybe as young professionals; our lives were touched at some point by Erdie. He will always have a special place in those warm memories of our youth.

In 2016, Erdie had begun experiencing occasional loss of muscle strength and coordination. Taking the matter nonchalantly, he casually went about his way. However, the manifestation continued to deteriorate dramatically to the point where simple tasks were becoming more and more difficult and even hazardous to himself and his family. His condition was a mere foreshadowing of events that would drastically alter Erdie’s life. After a myriad of tests and the process of elimination, Erdie was diagnosed with Amyothropic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). http://www.alsa.org/about-als/what-is-als.html?ref...

Erdie has been immobilized by this affliction. He is given special care for his daily physical needs by his loving wife, Gina, and their 5 wonderful children. Whenever it is feasible, Erdie continues to have treatment in the hope that it would alleviate the symptoms, prevent complications and to perhaps slow the progression. He also undergoes therapy to help manage pain and strengthen mobility.

The difficulty of coping with the demands of Erdie’s condition, the cost of prolonged treatment and professional care, the abated financial income due to the dedicated time necessary for the care of Erdie; all these complex factors have brought an enormous burden on the family.

It is in this light that a small group of Erdie’s friends, have collectively committed their time, effort and resources to support him and his family during their time of urgent need.

We believe that through Erdie’s affliction, God is giving us an opportunity to respond to the need through love and encouragement; through caring, and prayer. God graciously blesses us so that we may give. He is faithful to us so that we can share. We can pray for Erdie and his family and show them that we care. In so doing, we give them hope. They will know and be assured that they are not alone.

As the Lord leads, should you desire to give a little of your resources for the need of Erdie Garcia, please send your donation to:

• Bank of the Philippine Islands
• Bank account No: 0099-1740-05
• Account Name: Ernesto S. Garcia III and/or Regina T. Garcia
• Bank Address: Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City
• Swiftcode: BOPIPHMM

Erdie and his family would love to hear from you, too. You can send your notes of encouragement and prayers to Erdie and his family through:

[email protected] or [email protected]

We are collating photographs you shared with Erdie through the years. Would you please send us your photos and a short caption describing the moment to:

Facebook: Friends for Erdie

On behalf of Erdie and his family, we wish to thank you for giving your valuable time. May God richly bless you for the practical ways you will show your love, support and appreciation for Erdie Garcia #FriendsForErdie

Sincerely yours,

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose” – Jim Elliot