Eric Binnion

Hospice

In talking to my oncologist today, he said something along the lines of:

“We threw our best option, and then our second best option, and then our third best option. Those are some hearty tumor cells.”

It made me giggle because I imagined my tumor as stubborn and I think that that’s a trait that I have. Having a goal and then becoming the juggernaut to deliver on that goal. 

Alas, that asshole tumor out-juggernauted me. My wife and I have made the decision to enter hospice care.

I think what makes this decision so difficult is the feeling that I’m letting my family and biggest supporters down.

Obviously, I’m going to miss so many milestones with my family, and that’s incredibly sad. My 10-year anniversary is next month. Hero graduates from high school this year. In a few years, Destiny should graduate from college. Nearly all of Ember’s childhood.

I used to think that I would die fighting as long as there was any treatment path.

But, when I look at everything – treatment options and their toxicity versus effectiveness, current state of my lungs, etc – It doesn’t make sense to me to continue fighting. 

Thank y’all for being so supportive in this journey.

Responses

  1. Jesse Friedman Avatar
    Jesse Friedman

    You are absolutely not letting anyone down. We all love you and want to shower you with that love and we want to support you, and Sara and the kids but at the end of the day you’re the one facing this and need to make a decision that’s best for you and your family.

    It broke my heart when Sara told me you’re going to hospice but at the same time I have felt — for a few short minutes at a time — what it feels to struggle to breathe, how hard it is to sleep, the toll it takes. I can only imagine how it feels for you right now.

    You are one of the best people in my life, someone I look up to and will miss laughing, strategizing, and debating with. I’ll miss our conversations about being a Dad in this crazy world. I’ll miss so much but I won’t miss seeing you suffer with this disease.

    Just know that we will be there for your family no matter what comes next.

    Reply
    1. Jeff Golenski Avatar
      Jeff Golenski

      I second what Jesse said, Eric. This is heartbreaking. You’ve left an incredible legacy and you’ll be remembered forever by so many. Love you dude.

      Reply
  2. Anne McCarthy Avatar
    Anne McCarthy

    Oh Eric. We’re with you, even if a lot of us are far away. Just this week, I talked about missing you at work—your practicality, your stubbornness (!), your kindness. I’m so sorry at how much you’ll miss and how much your loved ones will miss of you. It’s simply awful. Any time your kiddos want to hear about how great of an impact you’ve had, know there will be a long line of folks wanting to tell them. I’m so glad we’ve crossed paths.

    Reply
  3. Leslie hodgkins Avatar
    Leslie hodgkins

    Hugs… many many hugs to you and your family. and your not letting anyone down. Your the best or the best Eric. Cancer sucks

    Reply
  4. Judy Mui Avatar
    Judy Mui

    You have been so brave, fought courageously and have been very strong throughout this long, difficult trial. I know what you are going through is very scary, and it’s very difficult for your family. No one wants to lose you; especially at such a young age. It was such a blessing to finally meet you in person, meeting your wife and beautiful baby Ember. I always pray 🙏 to our Father God for him to work his miracle on you and to cure you of your cancer. You and your family are always on my mind and prayers. Love you Eric and I will be in touch soon. Continued prayers for you and your family.

    Reply
  5. Vasily Belolapotkov Avatar
    Vasily Belolapotkov

    I can’t imagine what you’re going through, Eric, neither I can find words of support strong enough. You’ve been a brave soul and big heart, impacted so many people in real life (including me) and online – that’s a lot. It’s not over until it’s over, but doubt anybody around is or will think you let them down, mate. Hugs…

    Reply
  6. Karli Twining Avatar
    Karli Twining

    We love you so much! You are not letting any of us down, you have been such an inspiration this entire journey!!! I am honored to have you as a friend and a part of my family! Travis and I have been with you since the beginning and that won’t change we will be there always to cheer on Hero, Destiny and precious Ember in those milestones. Most of all we will help carry Sara through the hardest days she will face, and I promise to always share your love and legacy with them all!

    Reply
  7. ben300415 Avatar
    ben300415

    Such a brave decision. You have my utmost respect. Sending love and prayers.

    Reply
  8. Darren Ethier Avatar
    Darren Ethier

    I think what makes this decision so difficult is the feeling that I’m letting my family and biggest supporters down.

    Definitely not! There’s few in this world (living or not) that I respect as much as I respect you Eric.

    This kind of decision is never light, never easy, and never simple. Although some may think those three words say the same thing – for those going through this agony, they aren’t.

    Death doesn’t have the power to erase who you are now, who you have been for soooo many people, and who you will continue to be as you live on in the actions, the stories, and the imprint you’ve left on all of us.

    Death shall have no dominion.

    Reply
  9. Cris Busquets Avatar
    Cris Busquets

    Hi, Eric. I think we’ve only crossed paths in real life two or three times, but I’ve always felt happy you were around. Your kindness, empathy and wisdom always made me feel we were in good hands. So thank YOU for being you.

    I’m sorry you and your family are going through this, and please don’t think you let anyone down. Because you didn’t.

    My heart goes out to you and your family.

    Reply
  10. Kirsty Akahoho Avatar
    Kirsty Akahoho

    I don’t know you well Eric, but in watching your journey and from one Automattician to another, I can see and feel the love everyone has for you. The huge amount of respect for the impact you’ve had is also something to behold. Sending lots of love and strength to you and your family, you have let nobody down, but have dealt beautifully with a crappy hand x

    Reply
  11. Vlad Olaru Avatar
    Vlad Olaru

    You are already a juggernaut, mate! The way you navigated this mother of all shitstorms – how you held your head high, your mind focused, and your heart open, is nothing less than excellent! You raised the bar high, mate.

    And that is enough, by a wide margin. You have done more than enough. You are not letting anyone down.

    Reply
  12. Joan Artés Avatar
    Joan Artés

    Eric, we didn’t have the chance to work together, but I’ve always been praying for you and your family. And you are not letting anyone down. Sending lots of love and a big hug for you and your family.

    Reply
  13. Peter Butler Avatar
    Peter Butler

    The ability to step back and look at a problem clearly, and then be decisive in prioritizing the most important thing – thats hard, and it’s rare, and you’re good at it.

    I’m glad you’re making the decision that feels right for you. You really have raised the bar high.

    Reply
  14. Retno Nindya Avatar
    Retno Nindya

    We are with you, Eric. Sending you all the love and hugs to you and your family

    Reply
  15. Alex Sanford Avatar
    Alex Sanford

    We didn’t interact much during my time at A8c, but every small interaction we had was positive and pleasant. My heart is with you and your family during this very difficult time.

    Reply
  16. Jon Ryan Avatar
    Jon Ryan

    I wish I could find the picture, but my favorite memory of you, and maybe of my entire time at a8c, was when we went paintballing in SLC during GM. We all went to Goodwill to get clothes. Since it was just before Halloween a lot of us bought costumes. I was a purple Crayon, a few guys were in princess dresses, and you got a clown outfit. We couldn’t stop laughing at each other. Sending love to you and your family.

    Reply
  17. Dat Hoang Avatar
    Dat Hoang

    You do not let us down, Eric. We respect your journey, preparation, and writing this out. Sending ❤️❤️❤️ to you and your family!

    Reply
  18. Tung Du Avatar
    Tung Du

    Sending love to you and your family, Eric! Again, you are not letting us down a second here.

    Reply
  19. Veselin Avatar
    Veselin

    Eric, entering hospice care is a brave and reasonable choice. Cancer is such an evil and indiscriminate force. If there was only a way to punch it in the face.

    Sending you love and prayers.

    Reply
  20. Alvaro Gómez Avatar
    Alvaro Gómez

    We all have a limited time on this earth. It’s all about what we do with that time and what mark we leave behind. That asshole tumor cannot undo any of the positive impact you have had on your family and on this world, so please don’t let guilt enter the equation. That’s all that matters and that’s what will remain.

    Reply
  21. Rebecca Williams Avatar
    Rebecca Williams

    This is such a brave step, and I hope you can feel all the love and energies from everyone who cares for you. We’re all here for you!

    Reply
  22. Igor Zinovyev Avatar
    Igor Zinovyev

    Oh goodness, I feel for you, Eric. I can’t imagine how it feels to get to that decision and actually make it, but judging by your words, you chose to spend the time you have on your own terms, without the tubes and syringes. Brave choice, dude!
    I’d love to have a chance to meet you in person again, but alas it will not happen. So I’m sending you all my best wishes, hugs, whatever positive emotions I can send through this comment. Keeping you in my thoughts, man!

    Please keep us updated every once in a while about how you’re spending your time.

    Reply
  23. Núria Peña Avatar
    Núria Peña

    This is so, so unfair. Eric, I can’t even imagine what you are going through, but just so you know, you are not letting anyone down. You are extremely brave. ❤️ Sending love and all the strength to you and your family.

    Reply
  24. aaronfc Avatar
    aaronfc

    Eric, a big hug for you and your family. I will always remember my first bbq in Texas fondly and it was because of you. I met you there, but since then every minute I spent talking to you was a blessing. Thanks for that.

    Reply
  25. mwseymour Avatar
    mwseymour

    Sending love, Eric. There is bravery in the decision you’re making, not failure. You’re not letting anyone down.

    Reply
  26. Rodrigue Avatar
    Rodrigue

    Sending you a lot of love and strength.

    Reply
  27. Rob Pugh Avatar
    Rob Pugh

    I still think fondly of when you helped me figure out how to ship a PR in Jetpack and I had to take ten pages of notes. I’m shipping a bunch today for you. I love you man.

    Reply
  28. Anna AM Avatar
    Anna AM

    I vaguely remember first knowing your avatar, then seeing you in person at a GM. You were somebody in my eyes. Someone with opinions. Someone intelligent. We never know the ripples our lives have. Sending love.

    Reply
  29. Brandon Kraft Avatar
    Brandon Kraft

    All my love, sir. You’re not letting anyone down, not in the slightest. The folks at Hospice of WF are saints.

    Reply
  30. Britni McCotter Avatar
    Britni McCotter

    Sending you and your family all light and love. You’re a hero for sharing your experience, Eric.

    Reply
  31. Matías Ventura Avatar
    Matías Ventura

    Eric, my friend, I’m out of words. You have been a beacon of joy and everything that matters. Thank you, a million times, for who you are. We all have unbounded respect for you. Infinite love to you and yours, always.

    Reply
  32. katiedegenova Avatar
    katiedegenova

    You are incredibly brave, Eric.

    Thank you for sharing your wisdom, your wit, and yourself. You’ve shined your light more places than you realize. Sending love and strength to you and your family. ❤️

    Reply
  33. Alexa Peduzzi Avatar
    Alexa Peduzzi

    Sending you and your family so much love, Eric. <3

    Reply
  34. Semiha Kocer Avatar
    Semiha Kocer

    It’s such a tough and brave choice! Sending lots of love and strength to you and your family, Eric!

    Reply
  35. Victor Espigares Avatar
    Victor Espigares

    Eric, you’re brave. And you’re not letting anyone down. Not even yourself. You have been not only dealing with the cards you’ve been dealt, but with the grief that comes with them… for you, your family, and more. Sending you, and your family, much love and light.

    Reply
  36. Aaron Douglas Avatar
    Aaron Douglas

    Eric I think of you often and just wanted to say thank you for sharing your journey. I wish you had more time but making the choice you have feels so brave as others have said, and one I’d likely make myself. You have made an impact on my life. <3

    Reply
  37. anneforbush Avatar
    anneforbush

    Juggernaut: “a massive, unstoppable force, object, or organization that crushes or overpowers any opposition in its path”

    Eric, you ARE a juggernaut. Where your body gives way, your heart and spirit rise and outlast. Your legacy of love, care, and kindness live on and will be an empowering force for everyone whose lives you touched along the way. The world is a better place because of you, and I’m honored to have known you. Praying for peace for you and your loved ones, always.

    Reply
  38. Joel Avatar
    Joel

    You’ve done so much and are so brave, I can’t imagine you’ve ever let anyone down. I/we miss you at work, I’m so thankful we met.

    Reply
  39. Wendy Scott Avatar
    Wendy Scott

    Eric, this may sound odd but I think of you and your family quite a bit. The absolute unfairness of this situation, your courage in fighting it, your resilience and maintaining so much positivity in the face of discouraging news – all of it is inspiring and deeply sad at the same time.

    You aren’t letting anyone down – if nothing else, you have shown your friends and family a lesson in what real bravery looks like that they can draw on for years and years to come. Your courage in sharing your story has led me to push one of my loved ones who is at risk to get tested, so I thank you so much for that. May your time with your friends and family be filled with love.

    Reply
  40. Beau Lebens Avatar
    Beau Lebens

    Part of what makes you such an amazing man, friend, and colleague is that you never let anyone down Eric. You’re always there, stubbornly doing your best 🙂 This is no different. I hope you can get some rest and some peace; you’ve fought hard. You are and will always be loved and remembered.

    Reply
  41. David Nerling Avatar
    David Nerling

    Thinking and praying for you and your family Eric. You’ve impacted so many lives, mine included, and I have so much respect for you.

    Reply
  42. Nabeel Avatar
    Nabeel

    Sending you and your family much love Eric. You are truly one of a kind and one of the most memorable and kindest people I’ve met.

    I find some comfort in the saying: We’re all just walking each other home.

    Reply
  43. Pam Kocke Avatar
    Pam Kocke

    So much love to you and your family, Eric.

    Reply
  44. Job Thomas Avatar
    Job Thomas

    I love your stubbornness. I hope that you find rest and joy in this next time with your family. I will miss you.

    Reply
  45. Velda Avatar
    Velda

    Medicine let you and the rest of us down. Hopefully one day we’ll find better ways to sort this out, maybe with more open information and ideas like we’ve done with code.

    But as for you? You have made a huge difference at work and in this world. Thanks for being here and being the juggernaut.

    Reply
  46. Shaun Andrews Avatar
    Shaun Andrews

    I have so much respect and love for you.

    Reply
  47. Paolo Belcastro Avatar
    Paolo Belcastro

    Eric, I will miss you so much.

    The impact you have on all the people around you and beyond is incommensurable, and if there is one thing I know for sure, it’s that you haven’t ever let anyone down, let alone now.

    This decision shows your courage and your resolution.

    All the love, my friend.

    Reply
  48. Maria Antonia Avatar
    Maria Antonia

    Eric, I’ve been following along and I’ve only seen courage in you and now acceptance, which requires strength and grace. We hold on because we don’t want to say bye and that’s why acceptance is so hard.

    Wishing you peace and comfort for you and your family during this incredibly sad time.

    Reply
  49. David Rothstein Avatar
    David Rothstein

    Wishing you comfort, peace, and strength in the days ahead. You’ve accomplished so many things and inspired so many people, overall but especially during your brave fight against this horrible disease the last few months. Sending lots of prayers your way.

    Reply
  50. Paul Avatar
    Paul

    The love you seeded in all of us will prevail. Nothing will ever take that away.

    Will miss and remember you, Eric.

    My prayers are with you and your family.

    Reply
  51. Patrick Donohue Avatar
    Patrick Donohue

    Making the decision to go into hospice care is just another way that you’re taking care of your family, just like you’ve taken care of so many others in just the time I knew you, and I’m sure your whole life.

    Eric, you’re one of the greats, I’m so lucky to have gotten to work with you and learn from you. Even though we haven’t spoken in a few years, the world has felt more solid knowing you were in it. I’ll miss you and know a whole bunch of the world will, deeply. Thank you for everything.

    Reply
  52. Damianne Avatar
    Damianne

    Sending love to you and your family. You fought hard and are not letting anyone down. You know bettet than any of us how hard it’s been. Hugs.

    Reply
  53. Saravanan Sivaraman Avatar
    Saravanan Sivaraman

    I hope that you find rest and joy in this next time with your family. Sending you lots of love and strength to you and your family.

    Reply
  54. Rafael Meneses Avatar
    Rafael Meneses

    Hey bud, sorry for taking a few days to respond to this. I had to process it a bit. Honestly, it feels wild that all of this happened so quickly, but that’s on me.

    I just wanted to reassure you, like everyone else here, that you’re not letting anyone down. Never. And never doubt the great person you are, not even for a second.

    All the love, bud.

    Reply
  55. Ellen Bauer Avatar
    Ellen Bauer

    As a fellow Automattician I followed along without writing to you directly yet or even knowing you personally. I’m sitting here on my desk crying, thinking of your children and your family and how brave you are to accept and still have the strength to share with everyone here. I love that you despite everything or maybe because of it have not lost the sense of humor I can read in your words.

    What you are teaching is to accept and embrace the journey life is giving you, no matter how hard. And to love your dearest people extra hard. That is beautiful and powerful and I will take your teaching with me and let it guide me. Thank you, Eric, you are are beautiful and strong human and a wonderful teacher of life.

    Reply
  56. Michal I. Avatar
    Michal I.

    So sorry this is happening, man. I’m really glad our paths crossed, and I only wish there had been more of that time. You’re a truly great person, Eric.

    Thinking of you, your wife, and the kids, and wishing you all peace, comfort, and love right now.

    Reply
  57. Takashi Irie Avatar
    Takashi Irie

    Eric, you didn’t let anyone down; you inspire so many of us.

    Thank you for everything you’ve done for Automattic and for us personally.

    You are loved, you will be remembered, and we will miss you.

    Reply
  58. Dan Avatar
    Dan

    I’m so sorry, Eric. I think we only really met once, during a meal at one of the Whistler GMs I think, but just from that one hour or so, I got an impression of you as a warm and kind person, and thought of you as a friend ever since, even though we have barely interacted in the last few years. Sending all the love.

    Reply
  59. Felipe Velzani Avatar
    Felipe Velzani

    So sorry to hear that, Eric. All love to you and your family.

    Reply
  60. Henrique Iamarino Avatar
    Henrique Iamarino

    Hey Eric, we’ve never met, but I’ve been supporting you from afar through your posts and your fight. Although I don’t have much to add after all the love folks have shared here, I’d like to thank you for inspiring people rather than letting us down.

    Seneca, one of the greatest minds in human history, would say: “He is a sorry pilot who lets the waves wring his rudder from his grasp, who leaves the sails to fly loose, and abandons the ship to the storm: but he who boldly grasps the helm and clings to it until the sea closes over him, deserves praise even though he be shipwrecked.”

    All the love to you and your family. ♥️

    Reply
  61. Mo Carter Avatar
    Mo Carter

    Cancer sucks! It’s really brave of you to decide to put your family first and step into hospice. You are leaving a legacy of love behind you – you’ve done so much good in your time here on earth. Rest well my friend and take strength from those around you. Much love to you and your beautiful family.

    Reply
  62. Steph Yiu Avatar
    Steph Yiu

    Sending love, peace, and comfort to you and your family, Eric.

    Reply
  63. Noam Almosnino Avatar
    Noam Almosnino

    You are brave and an inspiration, Eric.
    Sending all the love and strength to you and your family.

    Reply
  64. Mark Armstrong Avatar
    Mark Armstrong

    Sending you so much love, Eric.

    Reply
  65. Kristian Vitozev Avatar
    Kristian Vitozev

    You inspire so many of us, Eric. I’m keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

    Reply
  66. Aras Kocaoglan Avatar
    Aras Kocaoglan

    Sending you and your family love and comfort.

    Reply
  67. Lucas Radke Avatar
    Lucas Radke

    So sorry to hear, sending you all the love!

    Reply
  68. Travis Walter Avatar
    Travis Walter

    Love you, Eric. I’m grateful to know you.

    Reply
  69. Griffith Avatar
    Griffith

    Eric, you are the best.

    Reply
  70. Renzo Canepa Avatar
    Renzo Canepa

    Eric, I’m grateful for the time our paths crossed at Automattic. From our interactions, I immediately knew you were an awesome engineer and a great role model. I’ve always had so much admiration for you.

    Wishing you, your wife, and the kids peace, comfort, and so much love.

    Reply
  71. Filipe Varela Avatar
    Filipe Varela

    You could never, ever let anyone down. Love you, man.

    Reply
  72. Paulo Trentin Avatar
    Paulo Trentin

    Eric, I’m really sorry to hear this. Thank you for everything you’ve shared with us along the way and for being such an amazing person. Sending love to you and your family.

    Reply
  73. Miguel Lezama Avatar
    Miguel Lezama

    I feel lucky I got to share so many adventures with you, from that first code battle to everything we went through together on Poseidon. My friend, your smile and your friendly stubbornness are staying with all of us forever, you are seriously brave and you are not letting anyone down. Look at these comments, this is the most amazing sincere deserved collective love I have seen.

    Reply
  74. Carolyn S. Avatar
    Carolyn S.

    I’m glad to have known you and wish you peace in the days ahead. Much love. <3

    Reply
  75. Juan Cook Avatar
    Juan Cook

    Sending u big hugs. I am praying for you Eric!

    Reply
  76. Igor G. Avatar
    Igor G.

    I’m really sorry to hear that Eric. I hope you can make the most of the time you have left, surrounded by the love of your family.

    Reply
  77. Matt Avatar
    Matt

    Eric, you inspire me in so many ways. The example of how you’ve lived makes me want to be a better human. You’ve made a huge impact on the world making the web more Open and Free. Those who matter know and understand the gravitas of your work. No one is perfect, but goshdarnit Eric you really embody the Creed and all our highest ideals in your quiet, unflappable way, all while being a cool and interesting person, fully unique and yourself. Your code and influence continue to shape Open Source and the future of humanity. Thank you for all the calls and listening to my crazy ideas and rambles.

    Reply
  78. frosso Avatar
    frosso

    After the 2025 RIF I was the only one left on my team, working long hours. You were my new director, we barely knew each other, and you still read my messages, listened, and worked with me to find a good fit. You didn’t have to do that. But it mattered a lot to me. Thank you.

    I remember you saying something along the lines of payments kicking your butt every day. It looked like you were having fun anyway, like a true beginner’s mind. That memory, to me, perfectly encapsulates your passion for learning and your direct communication. It made me smile then, and it still does 🙂

    I’m sad I couldn’t see you IRL once more after Lisbon, sending love to you and your family.

    Reply
  79. Cesar Vargas Avatar
    Cesar Vargas

    Although we didn’t get to work together for long, every call with you left me inspired by your love for work and technology, your kindness, and your candor. After them I always felt energized, eager to learn more, and motivated to do great work, just as you did.

    Sending that same love back to you and your family Eric.

    Reply
  80. jeffmcw3311 Avatar
    jeffmcw3311

    I’m praying for you and your family through this…and maybe one day I’ll figure out the GoDaddy contract…

    Reply
  81. Danae Avatar
    Danae

    Eric, my thoughts are every day with you and your family.

    I feel lucky I got to know and work with you last year, when the restructure put the team I was leading under your direction. Thanks for your guidance and kindness during such a time of changes and uncertainty.

    Treasuring the chats, the memory of you sharing a surprising vast knowledge on Pokemon cards, and the good times on the Chronos meetup in LA, when we got to meet later that year.

    Sending all the love and strength your way.

    Reply
  82. Mikael Korpela Avatar
    Mikael Korpela

    Oh man… Eric, thank you for everything. Your impact shows up at work every single day, and I’m so glad I had the chance to get to know you. I often think about you and the time we spent working together.

    Reply
  83. Thom Avatar
    Thom

    Eric, our paths crossed a few times at meetups and I am so glad to say that I got to meet you. You are the life of any room you are in and your legacy is broad and wide.

    I can tell you now that not one of us believe you have let us down and I’m sure that extends to your family and friends too. If memories are what we leave behind, you are leaving a truck load of positive ones.

    To see someone go through what you are makes the world seem so unfair. You don’t deserve the pain. I can only promise to send powerful thoughts and good vibes to you and yours.

    Sending strength to you and your family. Much love.

    Reply
  84. Ballio Chan Avatar
    Ballio Chan

    Hey Eric buddy. I’m so glad I got to know you during my time at Automattic. You’ve always been a kind and helpful friend beyond just a coworker. Your dedication has inspired me and others. Thinking of you and love to you and the fam. ❤️

    Reply
  85. Courtney P.K. Avatar
    Courtney P.K.

    Hi Eric, it’s been a while since our days together at A8c, but I was always glad to your friendly face at events. Thinking of you fondly and wishing you and your family strength and peace <3

    Reply
  86. Niesha Sweet Avatar
    Niesha Sweet

    We’re all thinning of you and sending love and prayers to you and your family. You’re so brave, and in grateful for the 6 years I got to know and work alongside you. Thank you for being such a ray of sunlight at every meetup we attended together. Sending all strength and love to you. ❤️❤️❤️

    Reply
  87. pierorocca7b694a254e Avatar
    pierorocca7b694a254e

    While our time together was short Eric, I’ll remember your willingness to hear what I had to share over drinks after Stripe sessions.

    Thinking of you and your family in these last moments. Big hugs. Remember to blog from the other side. 🙂

    Reply
  88. scottsweb Avatar
    scottsweb

    Sending a lot of love and hugs to you and your family from Sweden. We bounce around this blue marble in the most random, beautiful and chaotic ways. I am honoured that our paths crossed at Automattic. Thank you for your kindness, your creativity, and your contributions to open source. 🤗

    Reply
  89. Oleksandr Aratovskyi Avatar
    Oleksandr Aratovskyi

    Eric, you had a huge impact on me, even though we never met or even spoke on video. Your approach to work, curiosity, and optimism are great examples to follow.

    I want to thank you for navigating us through a challenging 2025. You are a VERY strong person and leader. I am deeply sorry that things went this way.

    Sending hugs from Ukraine, to you and your family <3

    Reply
  90. Ilona Jaudzemyte Avatar
    Ilona Jaudzemyte

    Seneca in his Letters to Lucilius, Letter 77, writes:

    “Life’s like a play; it’s not the length but the excellence of the acting that matters.”

    I can’t think of a better example than your life. Just look at how much depth and life your years contain, how many people you’ve touched, and how much you mean to them. Reading these comments, I feel proud of you. If there is a picture of a well-lived life, it’s here.

    This is heartbreaking. I hope the time ahead holds moments of love and joy, and that you feel surrounded by the warmth you’ve given to so many others.

    We crossed our path only a few times, but that was enough for me to carry your warmth with me.

    Reply
  91. Wojtek Naruniec Avatar
    Wojtek Naruniec

    Sending you and your family lots of love, Eric.

    I still remember how you recognized me, a new colleague, from one meetup to the next and brought me a Harley-Davidson challenge coin as a gift. That kindness has stayed with me. I’ve loved working with you and sharing conversations about motorcycles and shooting sports.

    Reply
  92. Ken Gagne Avatar
    Ken Gagne

    Eric, we didn’t cross paths much at a8c — but you were part of the family. Thank you for the legacy you’ve built with your co-workers, your wife, and your children.

    Reply
  93. Dani Rukin Avatar
    Dani Rukin

    Eric, I echo everyone here. You are in so many of our hearts and minds, now, and forever more. I have so many great memories of our time together. I cherish all of them. Wishing you a beautiful time with your family. What a legacy you leave!

    Reply
  94. rafaelgallani Avatar
    rafaelgallani

    come on… you’re not letting anyone down!!!!!

    man, I’m really sorry to hear this… it was more than a pleasure working with you and getting to know you. i’ll always remember that bbq we had at the Texas meetup.

    sending all my love to you and your family.

    Reply
  95. Kat Avatar
    Kat

    Eric, it was always a joy to cross paths with you, and I wish it’d happened more often. Reading these comments is such a moving reminder of how many lives you’ve touched. You and your family are in my thoughts.

    Reply

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