FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Beside Me, a powerful and heartfelt memoir by Michael E. Ramsey, tells the moving story of his son Eric’s battle with a heart defect, cognitive disabilities, and his perseverance to communicate and thrive against overwhelming odds. The book offers a unique, intimate perspective on the life of a family touched by tragedy, resilience, and profound love.
Born with a heart defect, Eric Ramsey faced an early battle with sickness that nearly claimed his life. In the wake of his struggle, Eric was deprived of cognitive abilities and spent years fighting to communicate in a world that often didn't understand his silence. Despite these hardships, Eric's determination and joyful spirit turned him into an inspiration for all who knew him. Through his diary, Eric documented the triumphs and everyday experiences that formed his journey—a journey that would later serve as the foundation for his father's book.
Michael E. Ramsey, a longtime radio broadcaster and dedicated advocate for individuals with disabilities, writes Beside Me as a loving tribute to his son. Through his storytelling, Michael chronicles Eric’s life, offering an intimate glimpse into the family’s personal choices, their challenges, and the deep, unspoken bond between Eric and his siblings. Michael’s words paint a picture of the grit, love, and unshakable bond that shaped Eric’s life and the lives of everyone around him.
"Eric has changed my life, and I hope you will find the stories of Beside Me will change yours,"
Michael E. Ramsey
The inspiration for Beside Me came when Michael's triplet sons were born thirty-five years ago. While the birth of triplets brought immense joy, it was quickly overshadowed by tragedy when it was discovered that all three were born with heart defects. Adding to the pain was Eric's struggle with a debilitating illness that left him battling for his life. Despite these early setbacks, Michael’s faith in his son’s resilience and his unyielding belief in the power of family became the cornerstone of the story told in Beside Me.
Beside Me is more than a memoir; it’s a celebration of perseverance, love, and the incredible human spirit. Michael's story serves as a testament to the power of family, community, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his son. It is a story that will resonate with anyone who has faced hardship, fought for understanding, or experienced the unconditional love of a family member.
Michael E. Ramsey is retired and lives in Dublin, Ohio, with his wife of forty years, Sharon. Together, they have seen their son Eric grow into an individual who inspires everyone around him. Eric enjoys Special Olympics sports, collecting movies, and attending musicals and outdoor activities. In 2012, he co-founded Beside Me, a day habilitation center for adults with disabilities. Michael is now retired and resides in Dublin, Ohio.
