ESU Hosts Book Signing, November 18

Posted by: admin on November 18, 2015, One Comment

Rick FranzoSix years ago, East Stroudsburg University (ESU) Convenience Store Manager Rick Franzo faced a mammoth sized brain tumor and a 10 1/2 hour long surgery. The growth may have restricted his physical body, but never constrained his attitude. Franzo fought back, and allowed writing to become part of his treatment plan. Today, he has successfully completed his first book “A Tale of 2 Brain Tumors.”

In 2009, Franzo was playing horseshoes at a family barbeque. Suddenly, his throws became erratic and unstable. Two weeks later, he was diagnosed with a large benign brain tumor.

“When you think of the word benign, you think harmless. What I had was anything but harmless,” said Franzo.

His tumor, though non-cancerous, was crushing a portion of his skull. After his surgeries, the reality of his condition began to set in.

“I was paralyzed from the waist down. I was told I may never be able to walk again,” said Franzo.

Throughout rehab, Franzo decided to write down his thoughts in a journal. The journal became his coping method. Though he did not have his legs, his thoughts became a powerful tool.

“This book is a reflection of what I went through. Hope is real, it’s a tangible thing you can wrap your arms around no matter what life throws at you,” said Franzo.

“It means a lot that ESU and SAA are doing this,” said Franzo.

One Response to “ESU Hosts Book Signing, November 18”

Chantal

Posted November 18, 2015 at 2:48 PM

This is amazing. To my longtime friend (with regard to my time at ESU) Mr. Rick has always been a smiling face and a helping hand. Congratulations on your recovery and this read!