The Cabrera Family

Dear friend,

Eric Cabrera and his son Elijah have a lot in common, down to the same birthdates. Most of all, though, it’s humor that connects them. "They're always doing funny voices when they talk on the phone, telling the silliest jokes," says Elijah's mother, Diane.

And they talk on the phone a lot: Eric has called Elijah every single day he’s been allowed to since he went to prison. Elijah was three then; now he's 13.

In his 10 years behind bars, Eric has kept fatherhood at the top of his priorities, from homework help to encouraging his son to pitch in around the house. "A few years ago, Elijah learned how to check the oil in the car," says Diane. "He just goes out there and puts the gloves on and does it. He got that kind of confidence from his dad."

Diane and Elijah visit Eric as often as they can, and the visits are filled with humor. The guards always make the prisoners stand in line to be counted. When Eric is called, Diane says, "Instead of just walking normally to the line, Eric will do some kind of dance or silly face. He couldn’t care less about looking tough and serious. He just wants to make his son happy."

It's an honor to be Elijah's dad," Eric says. "I thank God for giving him to me. I just remember teaching him how to tie his shoes, near the beginning of my sentence. And I look forward to teaching him even more things when I get out. To all the dads: Do whatever it takes — call, email — to stay close as possible despite the circumstances. Love above your circumstances."

Elijah and Diane won’t be visiting the prison much longer — Eric is slated to go to a halfway house this summer. In honor of Eric and Elijah and all fathers and children affected by the criminal justice system, FAMM wishes you a happy Father’s Day.

Sincerely,


Kevin Ring
President, FAMM