Here's to the hearts that ache
Here's to the mess we make

My name is Erin Marziale and I’m the sister of Zac Bertschy, who died on May 21, 2020. His death was a slow-moving train of destruction that I and all his friends and family who loved him fiercely were powerless to stop. I’m writing this blog as a way of coping with my pain and to tell the story of two siblings who tried to understand each other. We found our way to a deeper friendship and for that I will always be grateful. This is a grief blog and all observations and experiences are mine. It’s obvious but should be said that there are many who have a different perspective on my brother or saw things differently than me. Everyone has a right to their own experiences and view point. I send compassion to anyone struggling with addiction or who has someone in their life who is struggling with addiction. We all need to show ourselves compassion.

This blog is titled after the Audition song from La La Land. Zac and I shared a love of musicals and he loved Los Angeles. I don’t think he was crazy about La La Land but this song resonates with me.

You can reach out to me via email at emarziale@gmail.com