SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY APRIL 17, 2021
(RAIN DATE 04/18/21)
Please join us as we walk in memory of Eric James Antico Jr. on Saturday April 17th.
For those of us who had the privilege of knowing Eric, our lives have forever been changed by his love, laughter, genuine caring for others and beautiful soul. Eric suffered tremendously, struggling from the disease of addiction. Eric would want his foundation to make a difference… to call attention to the fact that we are making no progress in addressing the opioid crisis. Now more than ever, action is needed.
According to the American Medical Association August 14th briefing, there are reports of increases in opioid-related overdoses during the COVID pandemic. Statewide, there were 253 suspected drug overdose deaths in March 2020, up from 215 in March 2019, and there were 241 suspected drug overdose deaths in April 2020, compared with 209 in April 2019. One life lost is one too many.
Eric taught his sister Elena how to draw a unique rose. It is that rose that represents the fundamentals of our mission. A rose expresses promise, new beginnings, and hope. Our hope is that our foundation will help others to overcome the battles that our Eric relentlessly fought and to help those families suffering right along side their loved one.
In 2019, fundraising efforts by our 75 walkers generated an impressive $5,000 with net proceeds donated to Make-A-Wish® New Jersey. Make-A-Wish® New Jersey serves a unique, and vital, role in helping strengthen and empower children battling critical illnesses. This year, we want to raise even more funds to benefit not only Make-A-Wish® New Jersey but also another deserving organization, Common Ground Grief Center in Manasquan. The mission of Common Ground is to provide support in a safe place where children, teens and their families grieving a death can come together and share their experiences as they begin the journey through their grief process.
While this year’s walk will be different in that masks and social distancing are mandatory, the essence will be the same… We will honor Eric’s memory and help others. We hope that you will join us on this special day!