04/20/2024
Me and my only sibling, Eric, on Christmas many years ago.
Today is Eric's birthday, and I fondly recall the happiness and excitement we always shared leading up to the holiday.
The way the cold air felt, snapping our cheeks, reminding us it was winter. The excitement we felt coursing through our bodies, nerves building up as we waited to tell Santa what we were hoping he would bring us that year.
My brother Eric's absence weighs heavily; his life was cut short while awaiting a heart transplant due to a pre-existing condition and the flaws in our healthcare system. In Eric's honor, I championed healthcare reform in Washington, founding 'Hope for Hearts' to aid pediatric heart transplant patients. Eric's courage, artistic talents, and boundless love remain a part of my daily inspiration. Though Eric is gone, his presence remains, especially through my son - his nephew, Hartley Eric De La Cruz.
I have been working on a new initiative to honor my brother's memory. A new way to bring hope to the families still waiting for a new heart. Stay tuned. I am planning on talking more about it in the coming days!
In the meantime, Happy Birthday, dear brother. Your light guides us, and your story will forever inspire me and countless others. Thank you for continuing to illuminate my path.
With love always, your only sibling and big sister,
Veronica
