"I first met Eric in 2000 as my field partner, LaVarr McBride, supervised him on federal supervised release. I recall reading through his file and seeing his jacket (criminal history). One of the first things he said was, “I’m done. I’m retired. I’m not going back.” Typically, someone with that type of criminal history doesn’t last too long. After a year, I began supervising Eric as LaVarr transferred to the Administrative Office in Washington D.C. Through experience, Eric’s talk wasn’t cheap as he lived up to what he said. He did all the things he needed, such as worked full-time, maintained his sobriety, didn’t miss a drug test, and didn’t associate with his old friends. In his book, Hitting That Brick Wall, he talks about an incident where he was asked to setup a murder. He was done and didn’t want anything to do with that lifestyle. I helped organize, with his help, stopping this potential murder.
He has spoken at the U.S. Courthouse to U.S. Probation Officers, federal judges, and members of the Office of the U.S. Attorney. He made a big impression on all who attended based on his determination to overcome all he has faced. More recently, he spoke to high-risk individuals on federal supervision on life and how decisions determine destiny. Again, he had a big impact on those who attended. All left by giving him a hug and a renewed determination to succeed. People who hear him know we all have within us the potential to change for the better."
Eric Anderson, MCJ
Deputy Chief U.S. Probation Officer – District of Utah
Adjunct Professor – Criminal Justice Department – Weber State University
"I was given the honor to have been asked to do a review on the autobiography created by Mr. Eric Wicklund.
Mr. Wicklund and I have significant history as his ER nurse in his journey from sobriety. As an individual, he is inspiring, humble and honest, willing to help anyone.
HITTING THAT BRICK WALL is a lighthearted, easy reader of a man who embarks on his road to recovery, the paths that lead him there and finally self-acceptance.
His humbling approach is carefree and real as he learns who he is, where he was, and how to get to where he wants to be. The humor and emotion in his story I feel would make it easy for the reader to find humility and self-growth within themselves
As a nurse, this book is an amazing resource for others who are struggling with addictions and demons of their own. There are not enough teachers that are willing to expose themselves in such a heroic way to help others grow. His story is bold and brave as he embraces his past, only wanting to share and help others on their journey.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to express my thoughts and gratitude to Mr. Wicklund. He is not only an inspiration for those who struggle with addictions, but to those who look for help to assist others with addictions, such as healthcare providers such as myself."
Very Truly Yours,
Misty Ross, RN, BSN
“When Eric speaks to audiences they pay attention, not only because he is large in stature, but he has an amazing heart and love for others. He shares from his heart his passion for helping others through telling his story. Eric always reminds others that his only wish in speaking to others is just to have the opportunity to help one person see the path to changing their lives. Eric is compelling, truthful, a great sense of humor, and knows how to reach each of us and see that we can make it through any trauma, tragedy, or difficult time in our lives. From the beginning to the end Eric has a way of bringing audiences together and creates an atmosphere of learning and acceptance.”
LaVarr McBride
Pennsylvania State University - Associate Teaching Professor
Consultant and Professional Speaker, and Author.
“Thank you so much for all of your generous time in speaking with my classes here at CSUF. I look forward to what you have in store for my students this coming term. My students here at CSUF appreciate all of the time that you have given in speaking to them. They have found your presentations to be quite informative and interesting. They respect and appreciate your honesty and thorough presentations on the variety of topics that you speak on. Your presentations are beneficial. The students have found you to be extremely approachable and appreciate how you are able to provide that specialized view of the inner workings of the criminal justice system. You are not afraid to be vulnerable and express issues that you have faced throughout your life. It is also commendable that you are able to express to the students the variety of difficulties that you have faced and how you have been able to overcome many obstacles. Further, you give hope to all, and it is amazing to see how you have completely turned your life around and are now earnestly giving back to others. Thank you so much for all of your time, effort, and diligence in providing thoughtful, useful, and educational presentations. You are definitely one of the favorite guest speakers that my students continue to talk about and are thankful for.”
Lorraine Delfin, M.S.
Division of Politics, Administration and Justice
Criminal Justice Lecturer
California State University, Fullerton
Hitting That Brick Wall
W1694 County Rood H, apt. #2, New Holstein, Wisconsin 53061
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