Living, learning, and loving

The announced cause of death was heart disease aggravated by his past years of drinking and drug abuse.

In a way, this result is even more heartbreaking than if he had relapsed into his old ways. Eddie had fought so hard to put those demons behind him and make the most of his new life. He had regained his health, his family, his job, and the respect and admiration of millions of fans and colleagues. And in the end, in the most tragic way possible, his past would take its final toll.

But in the end, Eddie still triumphed. From the pain of his personal struggle, he tried to inspire others to turn their own lives around. If even in a small way he succeeded, that is the greatest of personal victories.

And from his passing, I will try to take one final lesson - to make the most of our journey, live each day to the fullest, and never take for granted those we love.

Viva la raza.