Favorite 11/11 posts:
November 11, 2006 Columbus, Ohio. Exactly one year after my stroke I won my first gold at Blue Belt. A nice accomplishment, but it was a email I received a few days later that changed my outlook on life. Enjoy
11/13/06 at 8:53 PM
Anthony,
I watched the match, and you deserve the 1st place as a fighter, as a friend, and as an overall person. The first place is just a symbol of the hard work and dedication you put into your life not just jiujitsu. It represents the personal challenges and hardships that you had to work through. I’m always proud to be able to say that I was there to witness and hopefully be a part of and contribute to your success. It was a long way getting there from the hospital bed to the 1st place medal. The most important part was the journey. Hopefully you will always take the time to pass on the wisdom you have gained to those less experienced, to those more experienced, but in need of your understanding and support and those who just need someone to encourage them to begin the journey.
Stay strong,
Ed
11/11/2009: A word from my human who I love very much: Four years ago I was found on at my kitchen table because I suffered a stroke. Now four years later I am so thankful just to be alive. I sit here with tears in my hotel because I really do live a awesome life. So make sure you tell the people in your life you care for them, that you want to be with them, because one day they may not be there. Urban Legend. 11/11
11/11/2010: Peace, Love, and Happiness! About this time 5 years ago I was on the way to the Hospital. I had suffered a stroke. Yet this past year I am thankful for being alive. I have learned more about myself. I feel I have the faith and desire to become that man I am ment to be. Make sure you tell the people in your life you care for them, that you want to be with them, because on day they may not be there. Urban Legend 11/11
11/11/2011: Today it has been six years from this very date that I suffered a stroke. According the National Stroke Association Stroke is the third leading cause of death in America and a leading cause of adult disability. I am very thankful I am alive. Every day I wake up next to my beautiful girlfriend Melani Schumacher. I am loved by my wonderful family. I work for the best company Farm Credit Services of America and train at the best martial arts gym in Omaha Mid-America Martial Arts. On this magical date of all elevens that could be just a coincidence or a phenomena of everyday life. Make sure you appreciate the life you are living because you only get one. In the fight I remain. Urban Legend
11/11/2014: Today is the 11:11 where I think about my life. 9 years ago this day I suffered a Ischemic Stroke. My words of advice from this past year is do not allow fears, doubts or concerns hold you back from living. I love all my family & friends. You are all so important in my life. Plus I got a nice little bump on my martial arts journey today.
11/11/2015: On this day of November 11, 2005 I suffered a Ischemic stroke. These last 10 years have taught me a valuable life lesson that I will share, in any bad situation, You can come back. You have no idea your capabilities if you just give up. So to my family, friends and everyone else I have crossed paths with. It was a long way getting from the hospital bed to staying up past midnight today to just celebrate being alive for the past 10 years.