Bring It! at the Carlsbad ½ Marathon

In honor of our friend Dom, we have a group running in the Carlsbad ½ Marathon and invite you to join Team Bring It! The race is scheduled for January 25, 2009 and there are already over 40 people registered, including Don, Amy and Scoob. The race is fast, flat and scenic, plus the weekend should be fun.

To register for the race, go to www.carlsbadmarathon.com/home, Send me an email (ledermac@mattel.com) so I know you are coming and can send you updates. Space is filling up fast and the race sells out every year so don’t wait too long. Even if you choose not to race, we would love to have you come out and support the participants.

As part of Team Bring It!, we created a tank top design (shown). The tanks are grey, available in unisex sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL) and are $16 each with proceeds going to the Ambriz Family. Special thanks for the Mattel Design Team for coming up with the Team design. To order your tank, please let me know quantities and sizes by November 14th so we have tanks in time for the race. CHECKS SHOULD BE MADE PAYABLE TO TEAM BRING IT (Sorry, no Paypal set up). - Thanks Cindy

Cindy Ledermann
c/o Mattel Inc
Mailstop M1-0904
333 Continental BlvdEl Segundo, CA 90245

Bring It Girls are 26.2 miles Stronger

My sister, Hope Youngblood, with friends Toni Dougherty & Toni Bouck competed this past weekend in the Nike Woman's Marathon in San Francisco. They were trained by TNT, raised thousands of dollars for cancer research & kicked some major ass. Of course they had the Bring It motto all over them helping them finish their feat. We are all very proud of you ladies.

Auction Tomorrow Night...Online Bidding Now Open!!!

The online portion of Funny Bones Auction in support of Bring It Foundation is now open. The online auction will run from October 20, 2008 to October 31, 2008. The live auction is scheduled on October 25, 2008 in Santa Monica, CA. Proceeds go to Bring It Foundation which supports the Ambriz Family, Cedar Sinani Medical Center and Brain Cancer Research. Auction items range from exotic vacation getaways to other donated items guaranteed to delight and surprise. So, tell your friends, family, and community. Let the bidding begin!

http://www.bringit.cmarket.com/

9 Days...Spread the word

a big thank you to all those planning (Kim, Natalie, Rebecca & Craig)

Funny Bones (Click image to enlarge)

Halloween Art Show Planned

Dominic Ambriz touched the hearts of so many people. His creativity and love for life is an inspiration for all of us. Halloween is creeping up on us and we all know that this was Dom's favorite holiday. To honor him, Team Bring It would like to host a Halloween Charity Art Show.

We would like to invite all those who knew and loved Dom to help us "Bring It" by participating in the show. All mediums are welcome. We will also be casting blank sculpts created by Dom himself for artists to paint / decorate to their liking.

Tentative date for the Art opening is 10/25 in Santa Monica. If you are interested in participating please respond to this email with the following information:


-Name

-Approximate size / medium you would work in: (i.e. Small: < 10" / Medium:
11" - 20" / Large: 20" - 30" / 3-d / other)

-Would you like a blank cast to paint (approx. 3")? Yes / No

All proceeds for this art show will go to the Ambriz family. We will send more information to those who are interested as we get more details. If anyone has any suggestions or would like to help in any way, please let me know. We hope to make this a night Dom would be proud of and we need your help to make that happen! We look forward to hearing from you!

For more information please contact Natalie Repp -- gnattie@gmail.com

**Mattel employees who wish to participate, please note that this is not a Mattel sponsored event and therefore must be your personal artwork executed on your own time**

Get Muddy

I hope everyone is well – I’m not sure about you but I am happy that Summer ’08 is finally over. Jane is putting together a little team-building gift for all those competing in the upcoming Mud Run. She needs a head count though – so if you are participating in the Mud Run or know someone who is, please email Don at dambriz@webcalligraphy.com so she can prepare them.

Also, the Wayne-Tacketts are hosting a Clean Up & Lunch party following the run. If you are interested please use the link below to let them know.

http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?inviteId=FYWJXGBLPKSAWZUNZCJB&li=iq&src=email&trk=aei3

Everyone who is participating – have a blast & good luck!!!

Mud Run

Looks like the Bakersfield mud run is scheduled for October 11. In honor of our hero and brother Dom, it's only fitting that we rally together and take on the Volkslauf Challenge (www.volkslauf.com). We can compete as a group and run it together at our own pace. It basically consists of a 6-mile course with various obstacles and mud along the way. There is also a shorter abridged version you can do if you like. There is not really a sense of competition and is primarily just for fun. Dom has done this one before and was planning to do this one again. It sounds pretty daunting, but it is a really fun course. I talked to Don and he said that as of right now, he, Amy, (Sergeant) Scoob, and some other Bakersfield
faithfuls will be joining. Registration ends on Sept. 12, or until the max amount of participants is met. Even if you choose not to race, feel free to come out and support the participants. Should be a fun weekend, we can carpool up and back. Please let me know if you have any questions. Take care, Matt

More:

When you sign up, just do so as an individual & its filling up fast, so if you are interested, do so soon.

Bring It. Live It.

SI Got the Message

(good looking out Benji)

Bring It Messages

My name is Tim Johnston. My mother Marilyn is a good friend of Don and Jane Ambriz. I never had the opportunity to meet their wonderful son, or Don and Jane for that matter, but their son's life as well as their own has been an inspiration since my mother first told me he had cancer.

I, like so many have asked why God could take someone so young with so much life to live. I've thought long and hard about it, I've come to this conclusion which I will accept as God's answer. Dominic's purpose in this life was complete, his sacrifice of more time on earth like so many before him has caused us all to focus on the things that really matter.

God, Family and Friends. It's amazing how God works. Dominic's life was an inspiration to someone he never knew and I am forever grateful! To Don and Jane. The world has been looking for an example of God's Love. I think we have all witnessed it in the last 62 days.

I did not directly know him, but I can tell that his character has influenced more people than anyone could imagine. He was surrounded by good people. People like him are a blessing in our lives and will always live in the hearts of those who he touched. Mine and my family's condolences and prayers go out to his family and network of friends.
Javier Monge

This morning when I woke up, Dom was the first person that came tomind and he has remained there since. Yesterday was one of the mostincredible days I have ever experienced. As painful as it was and willcontinue to be, I was reminded how amazing our whole group is and howmuch Dom has changed all of us forever.When I got out of bed, I wentoutside to get the paper and read my dad's beautiful article. AlthoughI had already read it a couple of times yesterday, I took it into theroom where Amy was sleeping and we read it together, lying in bed. Icontinue to be amazed by my sister's strength. We joked about how ifDom saw us being lazy in bed, he would tell us to get up and take a run.

Tacketts- thank you for opening up your home to all of us yesterdayand last night. What a special day.

I love all of you so much. Let's live every day the way Dom would wantus to and continue to bring it. - Katie Benham

My name is Rita Martinez and I was a long time business associate of Earthworm Studios, a soft place to fall. I was deeply saddened when I received the email and article from my son Jonathan Martinez who still lives in Bakersfield 1/2 block from where Don and Jane used to live on B Street. Jonathan lives in my house on the corner of 22nd and B Street. I have since moved to the beach.

I would like to make a donation in the area where Don and Jane need it the most. They must be devastated. I myself have been a regular at Cedars at the Guilda Radner Center for nine years and one thing I know is our children should never leave their parents first. But as a believer, God wants the great ones also. I guess that's why this grumpy woman is still here. My children John and Rebecca absolutely adored Don Ambriz and thought he could draw and accomplish anything. I still have his work hanging at both my houses. Remembrances of the past are most cherished. Every time we pass their old house on B street, we all remember the Ambriz family. Some people you never forget as they have maintained such an impact on your life. Please email so I may forward some money or be of help in some other way. I would have loved to attend the celebration of his life and see Don and Jane, but I just got the news this afternoon.

To Don and Jane and his cherished friends, I'm so sorry,
Rita A. Martinez

Californian Article

Here is a touching article that ran in Sunday's Bakersfield Californian. Thank you to Herb Benham for taking the time and sharing these thoughts with our community.

http://www.bakersfield.com/hourly_news/story/531415.html

Last Call T-Shirts

Dominic designed the shirt; it was a self-portrait caricature of himself after his first surgery. It will be available in white ink on a black cotton t-shirt, in adult sizes of SM, Med, L, XL, XXL.
Only $10 each shirt, which will cover the cost of printing & shipping anywhere you need.

Many of you requested shirts - we are extending the deadline to Wednesday. Email Don, your order now if you are interested.

If you are interested you can order by:

PayPal – www.paypal.com
Enter in Don’s information for payment - dambriz@webcalligraphy.com & make sure in the comments section to include your quantity, sizes & shipping address info.

OR

Snail Mail…first send an email to Don dambriz@webcalligraphy.com to inform him of your quantity, sizes & shipping address info. Then mail a check made out to Don Ambriz to:
2121 Pacific Coast Highway #2, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Celebration of Life - Today

Reminder we will be gathering today to Celebrate Dominic. See you there. Thursday, August 21, 2008 @ 2pm PST Sharkeez Manhattan Beach 3801 Highland Ave. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 **bring quarters for parking

Bring It Video by Craig Palumbo

I can't figure out how to get this awesome video to play in the blog, so go directly to the link below to see a small piece of magic that Craig Palumbo put together in Dom's honor. Great work Craig.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHM9EQmqVdE

Bakersfield Celebration of Life Memorial

661! Dom had such a pride about him being from Bakersfield (Bako) & it is where the family feels his final Celebration of Life should be held. We are fortunate enough to hold the Celebration at Franklin Elementary School – centered in old-West Chester, the neighborhood Dom ran around until he left for Otis (and the many trips back).

Please join us for some words, a couple songs from friends, artwork with tons of hugs & laugher too. There will be food & refreshments provided, all ages welcomed, and casual dress strictly enforced.

Saturday, August 23, 2008 @ 10am

Franklin Elementary School
2400 Truxton Ave
Bakersfield, CA 93301
***look for the marquee that was designed by Don Ambriz

LA Celebration of Life Memorial

It’s time to celebrate Dominic’s life & there is no better place in LA than Dom’s favorite spot – Sharkeez, Manhattan Beach. We spent countless days & nights there watching football, celebrating birthdays, grabbing a burrito or dancing (yes there are plenty of times Dom could be found on the dance floor at Sharkeez).

If you are available, please come and visit some with friends & family in a Celebration of Life – there will be short words from friends, music directly from Dom’s play list (clean versions), some of his art will be on hand & of course, plenty of reminiscing.

Small bites of food will be provided & there will be a no-host bar available. And of course, in true Dom fashion, this is a casual dress event. All ages welcomed.

We will see you there & if you have any questions, please shoot me an email.

Thursday, August 21, 2008 @ 2pm PST

Sharkeez Manhattan Beach
3801 Highland Ave.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
**bring quarters for parking

The Champ is Gone

I remember the very first call I received from Dom; mid-week, about 2am Central Standard, and Dom was a little timid. He told me about his blackout headaches, trips to the hospital & now, the fact he was going to have a surgery to see if this growth an MRI revealed was cancerous. That call was in January of 2006.

Much has happened since then. The BRING IT lifestyle was born, friendship bonds have been strengthened, a role model for how parents should care for their children happened, and a lot of good laughs were had throughout this fight. I think that is very important to know that our fighter never stopped his life – he went on trips, celebrated birthdays, rang in the New Year & made plenty of stops at Del Taco. Dominic lived ever since that first phone call.

Today at Cedars, day 62, a wonderful group had collected to spend time with our fighter. Kelly & Matt had Del Taco for everyone (even low carb-Amy had one), Scoob & Jane were there, and of course Don was there with his coffee. I was lucky enough to be there too as we joked around, told stories of KFC biscuit runs, Olympic viewing parties & junior high exploits. Matt & Kelly had to leave & it seems they weren’t the only ones who wanted to go.

There we were, a collection of a son, a brother, a boyfriend & a best friend. We all were passing the time in our own ways, when Dominic finally gave up the fight. I am sorry to report that this afternoon at 1:49pm, Dom took his final breath. It wasn’t graphic or painful; he slipped away when we all were looking away. The love in that room was so tangible & wonderful. The 5 of us huddled around our champion & all had our goodbyes.

We kissed him goodbye for all of you. Over these final two months you have all been there & not only the family knows it, but Dom himself was aware of the love that he was at the center of. It is an emotional day, true, yet, some part of me knows that Dominic fought harder & longer than anyone else ever could or would have. Even in his final days he Brought It – something I hope each of you take on.

There will be more on arrangements (one in LA & one in Bakersfield) a little later. Until then, thank you each for being wonderful to Dom, supportive of his fight, and part of the BRING IT community.

Bring It. Live It.

Bring It Wristbands

Before Dom’s second brain surgery, he had wristbands made that were inscribed with what has become his battle cry – BRING IT. I started out wearing mine every day as a show of support for his fight. Over time, the wristband has come to represent so much more to me. It is symbolic of Dominic – simple and unassuming, yet makes a bold statement. Throughout this time that I have shared with Dom and his family and friends at Cedars-Sinai, I have witnessed strength, love and determination that is unparalleled. His battle has taught me the importance of being good to oneself, staying positive, living life to the fullest, and demonstrating courage in the face of adversity – ideas that have become the mantra of the “Bring It Crew”.

You too can show your support for Dominic and his family by wearing a Bring It wristband. Let it be a reminder to you to live a “Bring It Lifestyle” every day, just as Dominic has done and continues to do.

Because Dom’s original wristbands were gone so quickly, an identical batch has been produced. The proceeds from the sale of the wristbands will go directly to the Ambriz family in an effort to help defray the increasing out-of-pocket costs as Dom’s fight continues.

If you would like to become an official member of the “Bring It Crew” and make a donation towards Dom’s cause, whether it be $5 or $5,000, you can do so via the following options:

A. Snail mail

Shannon Bonner
7200 Saddleback Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93309

Please make checks payable to Don & Jane Ambriz

As the school year is about to start, I am back in Bakersfield during the week. I will be doing the shipping from here, but will be delivering all donations to the Ambriz family as I travel to visit Dom every weekend.

or

B. Paypal

If you have a Paypal account, you can deposit your donation directly into the Ambriz account. If you choose this option, please make sure to email me at scoobbonner@gmail.com with your address so I can ship the wristbands out to you as soon as possible.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR LOVE & SUPPORT!
LOVE & BRING IT, Scoob

Bring It

Bring It. It’s a lifestyle. A community. A calling that Dominic made almost 32 months ago when he was told about his procedures that were needed to help beat his cancer. He told me one night when we were speaking that “as long as I have my boys, then Bring It.” Hence the mantra of his fight was born.

Many of you have asked about spreading the Bring It mantra on your own. New T-Shirts & Wristbands have been printed up for you to order if you’d like.

Dominic designed the shirt; it was a self-portrait caricature of himself after his first surgery. It will be available in white ink on a black cotton t-shirt, in adult sizes of SM, Med, L, XL, XXL. Only $10 each shirt, which will cover the cost of printing & shipping anywhere you need. We will be taking orders until August 22, 2008 (next Friday).

If you are interested you can order by:

PayPal – www.paypal.com
Enter in Don’s information for payment - dambriz@webcalligraphy.com & make sure in the comments section to include your quantity, sizes & shipping address info.

OR

Snail Mail…first send an email to Don dambriz@webcalligraphy.com to inform him of your quantity, sizes & shipping address info. Then mail a check made out to Don Ambriz to:
2121 Pacific Coast Highway #2, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Day 59

Hello everyone – sorry for the length b/w updates but I was on vacation & without a real internet connection. I have been in contact with Don daily though, and wanted to fill everyone in on the latest with Dom.

The wheels have been in motion for him to get back to the apartment but he is still at Cedars currently. There is a lot of “business issues” that still are being hashed out b/w the hospital & the insurance company, but the family has wisely let the patient advocate handle that mess & they are just focused on learning more about how to care for Dominic. Last week all other alternatives were given a last look – Hospice Facilities, nursing facilities, et al, but none of those would work. Some were not up to the standard of care Dom would need & others rejected him for the meds he is on. It’s difficult to find the right match but at this point a move back to Dom’s apartment in Hermosa Beach looks to be the route that will finally happen. I don’t have a timeframe for anyone looking to visit or anything, but I know Jane, Scoob & Amy have prepared the apartment & are looking into getting a little professional nursing help once the move is made. We will see how that goes once the move is completed.

As for his health status – it is close to the same for about 2 ½ weeks now. He is awake, but his days are becoming tougher. Seizures are happening a little more often, food & meds aren’t staying down as much, etc. But everyone is committed to making his time as comfortable as possible be it in the hospital or at home.

I will inform everyone when the move is made & if there are any new developments in his situation. As always, thank you for you continued support. It is draining on all of us, but the fight continues and we all need to have the endurance to continue supporting Dom & each other. – M

Bring It. Live It.

Up to date...

Another Sunday update from the Bring It world we all live in now. In the past few days many things have happened, yet not much has changed with Dom’s condition. His health remains as previously postings have described; he has turned more nocturnal now staying awake much of the night watching TV & sleeping much of the days. He isn’t eating too much as you can imagine, but there are times he drinks some water, or takes a few spoonfuls of Ensure. He digestive track is starting to work again (I’ll just leave that up to you to decipher) after nearly a month without use. Most communication is with a slight head nod or hand squeeze.

It’s the hand squeeze that I’d like to pick up on the story that has been going on for the past few days at Cedars. As you know, there are many heroes fighting along side Dominic, the 4th floor staff at Cedars being a battalion in his army of support, who many credit with the care that has helped sustain Dom in these grave times. Well the time has come for Dominic to leave Cedars now; mainly insurance reasons. I will spare you much of the back-story that took place but the conflict left a decision to be made rather quickly. There was an immediate scramble by the staff to intervene, but there is only so much the doctors can do to fight red tape. We then turned to the “Magnificent Mattel Machine” to see if they could apply any pressure and or advise in this situation.

I cannot emphasis enough how astonishing Mattel acted - it started from an email to a peer of Dominic’s, and then it went from Manager level, to a VP on vacation to the President himself intervening & taking action. It was amazing to witness the urgency & dedication the Mattel family put in. Much love to all of Mattel & special “kudos to Paul, Cindy, Evelyn, Mark, Alan, the CEO and the President himself!”

Well, that left us with time but a new solution was needed. His doctor asked Dominic to squeeze his hand when he heard where he wanted to be, “Cedars, a nursing facility or home.” Dom clutched his hand when he heard he could head home; so the decision was made. Monday afternoon [tomorrow] Dom will have a simple procedure to place a G-Tube (sounds kind of thuggish, so I’m sure Dom wont mind), which will enable an easier method of delivering nourishment & medication. Once that gets settled in & Don & Jane take a crash course in nursing, Dom should be home in Hermosa by week’s end. Hospice will set up his apartment with everything, but sadly there will no longer be 24-hour care on site. Some of the nurses have given their personal phone numbers to the Ambriz family & said they will come by to help & visit with Dom (he has inspired so many people). Don & Jane will be administering the medication & this point. I will let you know once that move is complete b/c I’m sure many of you will want to say hi.

For obvious reasons we’d love to have the chance to keep Dom at Cedars, but this is a great option too. Friends & family can come much easier now, Dom will be able to see his art & creations, catch up on his overloaded TiVo, and have some sense of familiarity. It was 50 days ago we went to Cedars; we thought we’d leave a lot sooner, and then we thought Dom might never leave. This journey has us each guessing & there are unpredictable turns everywhere; but there are two constants that we all should draw strength from:

1. Dom will never give up his fight.
2. The Bring It Community will never give up on Dom.

Bring It. Live It.

From Don & Jane re: MATTEL

The "Magnificent MATTEL Machine," has been beyond Amazing throughout Dom's challenging journey. We need to sing their praises about being such a caring company with great integrity who keeps the best interests of the employees at heart...who step up with compassion and assistance and intervention when needed...and how impressed we as a family all were when MATTEL’s CEO & President immediately got involved - and how everyone, with big & small titles show the same caring compassion and immediately step up to offer their assistance. We think that everyone should show their support at the grass roots level and go out buy MATTEL toys for any and all occasions! And to relay the MATTEL story to all who will listen!

Mattel is a Corporate-Citizenship Role Model!

Messages...

From Tracy:
Many a day in the early morning part of it, as I am lying in bed thinking about the start of my new day surrounded by 2 dogs and 3 cats, my thoughts drift to the two of you in room 4811 where I can see you sleeping side by side in a twin roll away bed with one's feet at the other's head and I am reminded of the time, long ago when you told me
how you and Jane had made a pack with each other that you would always be there for your children - no matter what! The images of the day I visited you all several weeks ago at Cedars will stay with me and show me what true love is, and how in the face of fear, and utter exhaustion, WHAT the face of complete and utter devotion looks like. I saw what it means to TRULY STAY THE COURSE. There was a grace about the two of you
that reminded me of how Generals McArthur and Patton must have felt in the war room during World War Two: Resilience, Weariness, Sadness, Tactical Actions/Plans and above all no one is to give up. (Thank you Prime Minister Churchill.) I was just thinking yesterday, I really want you to go home to H.B. and be there with the Family and so Jane can have something to eat other that her institutional soup and that was before I even new this is what the new plan is.

Also, I have been wanting to write but I wasn't sure about my love for Hellyboy is the appropriate subject matter but what ever and the hedoublehockysticks is really coming out of me now.

Last week, I saw Hellboy 2. I have always loved Hellboy. Really I love the director, Guillermo del Toro. I was introduced to his work, with the film "Cronos" which I saw at my beloved Tejon Theater (member our going away party for Tim and Karrie at the theater. Did I mention they are now incredibly successful in Austin, TX.)

I got thinking about the nature of Hellyboy and I wonder the following: would Dom and Scoob watch Hellboy on their weekly Friday movie nights? Would Dom have created the Hellyboy character and then make a mask, hang it on his wall where upon Amy's Jeff would ask him about it. Really, I think for me, Dom and Hellyboy share some of the same traits: the obvious - strength. A good look - ok, Dom isn't red but I could totally
see him wearing a duster and if he carried guns he would carry a big one. Dom and HB share a need to be honest and true about what is at hand. Maybe Dom doesn't love kittens to the extent HB does, but perhaps if he didn't live in an apartment he would get a kitten. I'm not sure he has or would ever develop a taste for Cuban cigars and really chances
are D and J would nix that one. Ultimately, for me what reminded me of the similarities between Dom and Hellboy are their traits of strength/gentleness. Both are with-in them like two heads of the same coin. In this one scene, Hellboy has to fight a monster while holding a new-born baby. To me, I could see Dom doing that. If Dom would have had
children (let's pretend he and Scoob are parents) and Scoob has to go to Target - well, first Dom would be lifting weights in the living room with one hand and holding the baby with the other. He would be utterly devoted to his child - just like his parents.
I love you Don and Jane Ambriz!

Tracy Lovelace signing off.

*******************************************************

From Rebecca (Dom's cousin)
Dominic,

I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU!

Please know, I'm praying for you with my whole being, Dominic.
I think of you often through out the day.
I have my autographed “Bring-IT” t-shirt hanging in the bedroom so
every time I walk-in a prayer goes out.

I'm praying for you all!! I love you Aunt Jane and Uncle Don!!

Honestly, I've been checking the blog daily, but I just didn't know
quite what to say.

Dominic, you've taught me a great deal through your "Bring-It"
lifestyle. I have learned so much about you through this blog. I
loved the picture of your Marathon FINISH and Muscle Men Swimming
photo! Actually, I've started juicing... I want to live a healthy
lifestyle! You really do push people to challenge themselves by way of
example, thank you.

I love you so much!

(Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Marshall for setting this blog up, I
can't express in words how wonderful this has been to share in this
community!)

All the best,
Rebecca

Its Almost August

Evening as Day 46 comes to a close. The fight rages on. Reports from Cedars have the situation very similar to the last update. Dom is still awake & alert, but struggling every day with everything we consider normal & functional. They have been trying to get him to drink Ensure and at times he is able to even keep it down. He sleeps, rests, and endures daily.

The out pour of support continues as guest come to say hello, lend themselves & of course take care of Jane, Dom & Scoob. A little hint – all three love Pink Berry now. The 45 days signifies the days Dom has been in Cedars this go-around, but there is a chance he will need to continue his fight elsewhere. Nothing new on that front for now, but there may be something down the road.

I plead with you not to languish or fatigue in your support & belief in Dominic. I know it’s been a long summer & difficult for you all, but your thoughts, blog messages, love & prayers have gotten to Dominic & that’s why we are here. Some problems are good ones to have & I can tell you, no one, especially the doctors thought we’d be looking at day 45.

Many of you have asked for his address to send gift cards vs. PayPal. I wanted to give thanks for all the funds & gift cards that have already been donated. On behalf of all the Ambriz, thank you very much it is so appreciated and beyond recourse. Thank you.

2121 Pacific Coast Hwy #2
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Good Afternoon on Day 40

Hard to imagine that when Dominic checked into Cedars it was Father’s Day; his Dad (or Mom) hasn’t left him much since then. The news continues to string our emotions along like the dynamic summer movies Dom likes so much. As you know, Dom has awakened from his coma & is fairly alert for someone in his position. The doctors, who continue to be attentive with their care, are bewildered seeing they checked out his blood levels & they are very strong. This led to a recent conversation about adding a feeding tube back into the equation.

Scoob, what a fabulous woman, really wants to do everything possible to increase the quality of life for Dom; whatever & how every long that may be. She rightfully thought if Dom could fight himself out of a coma & the medical sedation he was in, then maybe he was ready for something more too. Now, we’re not talking Del Taco or anything, we’ll need to continue to put those #4 meals down in Dom’s honor, but maybe we could do something. There was a meeting at the hospital with the family, doctors, administrators & some of the fantastic nurses, and in this meeting it was determined a feeding tube maybe too risky. The pros didn’t really out weigh the cons…but Nurse Paul suggested going back to orally giving food. Dom had progressed enough to where he was swallowing again & this seemed like maybe it would bring Dom small pleasures. So this week they have started to give water & some other liquid food supplements orally to see if Dom will be receptive to this. The hope is maybe we can get to Jell-O or ice cream; something that has a flavor.

So, what does this all mean? I know you are asking; hell everyone is asking. 40 days with Dom’s fight, the family & visitors, the entire hospital is asking. Truthfully, no one knows, but let me try to explain it the way its been explained to me. Dom has terminal cancer & there hasn’t been anything thus far to change that cold truth. Just as living 31mns is beating the original odds given back at the beginning of this journey, living 40 days in this condition is beating the odds again. The man is a fighter. And he hasn’t given up that fight. Right now he is better than he was two weeks ago, but he is still a shell of himself; he can’t use his limbs, he is on pain meds, can’t talk & his weight is alarmly low but it is all relative. Sadly, I don’t have, nor do the doctors, any solid answers, which can be frustrating, but as the Bring It Community has all decided to do – we will continue to have faith, look for miracles, live the Bring It lifestyle, celebrate Dom’s life, enjoy the time we do have with him & support each other.

Much love – M
Bring It. Live It.

Today Dom is 5'9"

Fight like hell Dom! It's like you're running a marathon and we're all on the sidelines praying in support! I'm very thankful to Palumbo for reading my card to you about a week ago, but I'd like to reiterate how much we've got you covered in prayer! You truly have a remarkable soul that stirs our own awareness to be like you, react with grace like you, have multitudes of friends like you, family that go to no end for you, and have that strength that emulates a survivor, like you. I miss seeing your handsome face around with the crew, not to mention your wit, mostly sarcastic humor, funky dance moves, and carpe diem attitude. Keep on fighting buddy, cuz God's got you in his hands and isn't letting go. I am grateful for this blog, and am inspired by the strength of your friends and family. God is with you and so are we. Much love, Sabrina

I am Kathy Cross Davis, Dom's cousin. It has taken me along time to write, I guess because when a family member or friend is sick it makes you think of your mortality or that of your own children or spouse. I worked for my Aunt Jane when I was 17 years old at my Dad's office, I was so afraid I was going to make a mistake etc. etc. my 1st job and all but it helped get me to Japan with West High Chamber Singers. I felt like such a dork when I was working so I was so thrilled when Aunt Jane called me to watch Dominic when I think he was about 18mos old. He was so cute long golden curls like his Dad(except the golden part)and great big beautiful eyes like his Mom. He was very quiet and observed everything. My oldest son and he are the same age and I had to laugh when many of Dom's friends said he could remember everything about things that had happened in his life. My son Stephen and he must have been conspiring back then because he is the same way. I just want Dom, Amy, Aunt Jane, and Uncle Don to know that our family prays for them daily and I think of them always and feel it was such a blessing that I could watch Dom during that time in his life. What a great blessing that he has woke to spend more time with his family. God Bless, Kathy

Quotes & Poems...

"It is a rare person who can hear the blunt authority of a terminal diagnosis, refuse to accept it, and choose a different path." - The Art of Racing in the Rain.

"Even in our sleep, pain which cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart, until, in our own despair, against our will, comes wisdom through the awful grace of God." - Aeschylus

The Moon Wakes
by Garcia Lorca

When the moon sails out
the bells fade into stillness
and there emerge the pathways
that can’t be penetrated.

When the moon sails out
the water hides earth’s surface,
the heart feels like an island
in the infinite silence.

Nobody eats an orange
under the moon’s fullness.
It is correct to eat, then,
green and icy fruit.

When the moon sails out
with a hundred identical faces,
the coins made of silversob in your pocket.

Live Strong...

Today is day number 34 at Cedars; you can look at that like that’s a long 34 days or the way I choose to look at it – that’s a long 34 days Dom continues to fight. Well the boxer, as many of you know, was really on the mat recently. Most of the past two weeks Dom had been in a comatose state, not to mention heavily sedated for pain concerns. For those who visited Dom in the hospital all we could do is hold his hand while he slept, talk to him, not know how much he heard or if he understood us at all. As I’ve tried to relay in my previous messages, the situation was bleak and it seemed the fight was dramatically close to ending.

Now, here is where Dominic refuses to go quietly. Four days ago Dominic woke up…from what I understand he literally was wide awake, responsive through head nodding & hand squeezing. He has even been trying to speak, but he is just unable to. He’s been passing his time with engaged with visitors, and watching TV; the doctors are truly baffled. They care for him without hesitation & have been monitoring him with much zeal since Dom is fully alert now. He is still in a situation that is very day-to-day; please do not misinterpret this information. He cannot use any of his limbs, speak and his tumors are still aggressively present. Yet, there is something in our friend’s soul that refuses to give up. How are you not inspired today? Maybe it’s the blog messages that he hears every day, maybe the prayers or blessings, I don’t know, but somehow Dom is a bit stronger today than the weeks before.

The family felt the supporters of Dom should know all the information that is out there; you are part of this as the Bring It Community and your rally around Dom has helped. The doctors are working to see if there are any measures that could be taken, but at this time its status quo with providing comfort-care, monitoring, and giving LOVE to Dom as his #1 medicine. No one knows if this new development is a step closer or further from the end, but nonetheless our fighter continues to fight on.

Once more information becomes available I will share it with you all. Thanks – M
Bringing It Daily

Some birthday fun w/Mattel

Dominator, a.k.a. Dom-the-Bomb:

[My husband, Benji is Dom's best friend (from kindergarten). Believe it or not, I have known Dominic for the same amount of time that I have known Benj. I met them both sophomore year of high school, which was 13 years ago.]

Memories from back in high school have become fuzzy, but always include the infamous OP, big red, and I will never forget going to Rusty's and watching pro-wrestling, and seeing for the first time what it is like when Dom is pumped up, "Give 'em the stunner" and "IT'S OVER! IT'S OVER!" Dom, you are so hilarious when you are "en fuego" (as Benji would put it). How many nights have you had us rolling with laughter?

More memories from sophomore year, like cruisin' in Grendel with Jessica Allred and working on the floats. Getting into lots of trouble (but not too much) with our extended group of friends. If I had a dollar for every time you screamed at the top of your lungs, "Seniors '98". Remember Mr. Burke's class? Days of our Lives and Sammy? Econ, Mr. O'Conner, and the stock exchange? That may have been pre-email; I think those computers were the first PC's we had ever touched. Remember the trip to Rosarita freshman year of college? If I had a memory like you, Dom, I could recall everything in detail.

I want to take this opportunity, also, to honor the friendship that you, Marshall, Benji and Larkin have. It is an amazing one that has transcended miles and years. It seems like every holiday or gathering has involved a Monopooly game that extends late into the night. This, along with traditions like 2 on 2 basketball and 40s of malt liquor (usually not at the same time, but I wouldn't put it past you guys) were always highly anticipated with lots of hype (and a little trash talking). You all are my family; you have always included and welcomed me with a 40 of my own (if I could hang).

Over the years, I also have had the chance to get to know your family as well. I feel so lucky to have spent time with you, Don, Jane, Amy and Maddie in Cambria over the years. I have so many fond memories in Cambria, chatting, taking runs (or walks), and eating great meals together. Benji and I always have joked that we were staying at the Ambriz Bed and Breakfast. We always felt like we were home.

Dominic, Don, Jane, Amy and Madison, I love you all.

From Amy (Thistle) Tackett

Hello Bring It Community

I wonder if you’ve brought it today? I don’t think I have at all & in fact after getting an email from one of my oldest friends I was really hit hard about Dom’s situation. I’m sure many of you have had that when you felt you had everything together & then you were just hit from the blindside with a rush of emotion. I thought the best thing I could do is write a little & share a bit with some loved ones.

Dom had this infectious laughter and joy, it was conditional though, and he had to really be excited about something. Dom didn’t have the “fake-it” gene in him. Recently I spent some time thinking about some of my favorite times with him & one in particular came to mind. It may seem trivial to you but it means something to me.

One year I decided to have a party to kick off the NFL season -- this was like 4mns of Christmas for Dom & myself (like many 20-somethings) – and we decided to do something to honor the first Sunday. I threw a Waffles & Beer party – don’t over think it – we had waffles & beer as the games kicked off. These may be a lethal combination but for a couple guess in their early 20s, this was a matter of putting two delicious treats together & enjoy. A no-brainer. The excitement he had leading up to that Sunday; calling me & asking what he could bring (of note: buffalo wings, Titos Pizza Bites & Poppers all started here), always asking me how many waffles I could finish by half time, actually sending me unsolicited emails about the party. Once the party started Dom was in heavy – all his favorites were there, including Kelly & Will, and they all started to harassing me about my homemade salsa. He decided it was too chucky to be called salsa & too liquidy for guacamole, so he combined the words to “gu-sla.” It still lives on today & just the belly laugh he gave that day in the creation of that word with Kelly & Will will always stay with me.

(Important note – he woke up that night after he left & got sick. Be careful if you want to throw your own Waffles & Beer party. BUT he did have an incredible time & made my day for being such a fun person to chill with)

Thanks for letting me get that out there. – Marshall

A great quote:

From Rochelle:
"If children have the ability to ignore all odds and percentages,then maybe we can all learn from them. When you think about it, whatother choice is there but to hope? We have two options, medicallyand emotionally: give up, or fight like hell." ~Lance Armstrong

Messags...

From Kacey-
So I have been hesitant to write this because I felt like it would be more about Scoob then Dom, but then I realized learning more about Dom through Scoob is probably the best way to get to know him. Scoob has been one of my best friends for I think about 13 years now. I have also known Dom since this time at BHS. Even though we have never been close we have always hung around in the same large group of friends. When Scoob and Dom rekindled the flame, I was so happy for her and I saw her light up in ways I have never seen before. I was around for part 1 of Dom and Scoob and was happy to welcome part 2. As there relationship grew Matt (my husband) and I also got to spend more time with Dom. I enjoyed Dom's company immensely on Super Bowl because I was not the only one screaming at the TV or showing my dislike of the Manning Brothers. I am a Patriots fan so to say the least the day was not a happy one, but I enjoyed someone being on my side.
I have learned more about Dom over these blogs then I have ever known. His character is lifted to such an inspiring place because of the friendships he has made over the years. Not all people have friends like Dom does. I will say that I know for a fact that Dom must be an amazing person in order to have such an incredible woman like Scoob love him unconditionally. For all of you who have not have the privilege to know Scoob, she is kind, funny, honest and one of the greatest friends a person could have. I may not have known Dom that well but I am learning more and more everyday by the love that Scoob has for him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Dom, Scoob, Don, Jane, Amy and all of the friends and family in this fight together.
All My Love,Kacey (Mitchell) Tatsuno

From Debbie:
Dear Friends,
I feel that we are friends as we have been on this journey together, cheering the “Dom” team to victory! Yesterday Clinton and I got to visit Dom, Jane and Don and had the pleasure of meeting Justin and Tommy. Before we prayed for Dom, Jane said that someone connected to Scoob had flown from Northern California that morning to anoint Dom with oil representing the Holy Spirit and pray the prayer of faith for his healing. How awesome! Seeing Dom in the bed, he appeared to be taking a little nap. In this coma-state, Jane said that he hadn’t moved hands or feet for a few days. God says in His Word that we have not because we ask not and we ask amiss. So, there are specific things I noted yesterday that would be important points to come into agreement about. Won’t you please join me in prayer?
1) Pray that the tumor would dry up and shrink and that it would leave no residual effects from the depression on his brain. Pray that all the ganglia roots would die. Pray that great mental activity would be restored and cognitive and physical skills would return.
2) Pray that his organs would work the way they were made to work. God says Dominic is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Pray for his digestive, respiratory tracts. Decree his organs…kidneys, liver, pancreas, lungs and heart would work in perfect alignment with each other and that no undue stress would remain.
3) Pray for his blood cells to come into balance and for the oxygen to be at healthy strong levels in his blood. Pray for his strong immune system.
4) Pray for his brain to send stimulus to his arms, hands, legs and feet to move and receive signals again. Pray for complete restoration according to Jeremiah 30:17 and that Dom’s future according to Jeremiah 29:11 would come to pass.
5) Lastly, pray for Jane and Don. They sleep on one small cot at night and fill the room 24/7 with their love for Dom. Their wells have not run dry. They are deep. Pray for their continued favor with hospital staff and for restoration to overcome them. Let the joy of the Lord be their strength, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Debbie Shick

A poem written by our daughter Debbie, who battles her own illness daily, to remind us what our noble nephew Dominic moves toward. With everlasting love, Uncle Dave, Aunt Jeanne, Jennifer, Debbie & Grant Cross

Exodus

Chasing the mirage
I know it is not real
But that does not matter

I like looking toward
The lushness
My thirst has conjured

Step after step
Sand sifts through my toes
The milk of coconuts
And the sounds of trickling waters
Beckon me onward

Smiling through parched lips
I know the illusion is not a trick
But a gift of the imagination

I close my eyes
The perfumes of exotic flowers
Come to me on the breeze

I kneel and gaze out to the glimmering distance
Palm trees and waterfalls sing out their welcome
And there YOU are, waving to me
And I realize this is not as oasis of fantasy
I journey toward...
This is Heaven

Deborah Cross
2007

Good evening....

I've been thinking all week of how no one really knows the impact each of us has on each other. Once I saw Mike Willis' post, it reminded me that I don't think I ever heard Dominic say anything in the 25 years I've known Don and Jane -- yet -- Dom and his family have had great influence on my family.

All through the years I've listened to the activities of Dominic and Amy growing up. Whenever I would visit Don to help me with my latest work project, we would always talk about our kids first. Heck -- he even designed my girls' birth announcements! Anyway, sometimes I would be so frustrated with the stages my girls would be going through (they are younger than Dom and Amy). Don would listen and then give me counsel on what he and Jane went through and how I should just chill out a little...many times I have thought back over Don's advice and it really did help.

When Dominic went off to Otis, I remember many stories that Don shared with me -- quite proudly, I might add! A few years rolled by and then I was agonizing over what to do with my oldest daughter Erika and college. Don used to let her pick up scraps of foam core board when she was little. We talked about her artistic bent and Don would always go back to examples he and Jane had with Dominic and Otis. My husband was in Iraq at the time, and I was tearing my hair out, so the counsel I received was invaluable at a time when I really needed it.

The silent thread that ran through all of this as an example of success was Dominic. Erika is now about ready to enter her senior year at Otis. I know there were times she was ready to give up, but I know the words of Don and Jane, and Dom's continued success have helped her more than any of them will ever know.

Much love to you all.....
Maureen Buscher-Dang

Latest Update...

Good morning everyone –

Today is my third stint from Texas here with Dom (JV compared to Don & Jane & Sccob & Matt) but it still nice to be able to walk in and say hi to my friend. I wanted to send out a quick update on his status.

Today, is much like the past several, he is resting in room #4811. The hospital at one point looked to have him finish out his time elsewhere, but Don was strong enough to insist he stay @ Cedars, and then once his doctor heard this news, wrote, “I’m Dominic’s ride, and I’m not driving anywhere.” So he will be at Cedars for the remainder of this journey. He’s lost much of that sculptured body, but you can still see the frame that made him so intimidating at the pool. In a bit of irony, Dom has a very full & dark goatee that Benji fashioned for him. Sadly he isn’t responding any more, but that doesn’t stop any visitors sharing their favorite memories with him.

We all love him so much. More to come when more happens. Thank you.
Bringing It daily.

Morning...

From Julie (Davis) Hansen:
Please excuse my grammar. I haven't written anything in a long time. I just heard an update about Dom on Tuesday from Wendy Wayne. My thoughts and prayers are with you Dom, and your family. The last time I spoke with Dom was a few years ago at Jastro Park. It was just like old times. Just to list a few fun memories: Emerson Eagles, Best dressed, Fighting in English class, Miniature golfing, Watching the Godfather with Sonia, Kissing in the back room while watching the Godfather with Sonia! Talking on the phone until we fell asleep. My mom taking us on dates, This one is funny, Dom and I got into a fight in English Class, we were sent to Mr. Brothers office. You know when kids fight it really means they love each other. That's when I knew I loved Dom. I loved him for his huge heart and his amazing artistic abilities. We were, (I guess you could say) boyfriend and girlfriend. Puppy love at 14. Dom and I were close through High school, sharing all the drama of each other's relationships. Occasionally writing love letters back and forth to each other. We lost touch when Dom went to Otis. I miss you. I would like to express my appreciation to Marshall for your endless support. You are an amazing friend. Thank you for allowing everyone who loves Dominic to share there heartfelt thoughts and memories. Love, Julie (Davis) Hansen

From Evelyn (Dom's Boss):
Hi Don, Jane, family and friends,
I am here to talk about Dom, the professional.
The incredibly talented Creative that he is.

I met Dom in 2003, when he was a student at Otis. Mattel Girls was sponsoring the Senior class project, and I had the honor of sitting in on all critiques.

Typically what happened with these Girls toy assignments was that the girls in the class were totally into the project, and the boys rolled their eyes, whined throughout the entire process, and then ended up showing us a vehicle line or action figures for girls.

Not Dom... he was more than comfortable with the project, and gave it his all.( and I am sure he got teased for it too) .

I remember how impressed I was with his incredible drawing skills, as well as his great ideas, and thought process. Wow, I thought…now he has the "it" factor.

Lucky for us at Mattel, he agreed to join the Girls design team as a full time employee when he graduated. (guessing he got teased again)

How in awe you would all be to have my perspective of Dominic at work for the past 6 years. To see this talented designer in action; thinking, creating, innovating, learning, and growing.

There would be no Pixel Chix if it wasn't for Dom. He was the force behind it all.....creating hundreds of sketches for our Pixel girl. For those of you who don't know ... this brand was huge, not only in the US but around the world . This is just one example... through the years he worked on "everything Girl" from Plush toys to small dolls.

More importantly, behind the raw talent there is the soul; his passion, incredible drive, and true love for the craft.

As you can see, Dominic lived up to my first impression of him, and actually surpassed it tenfold.

Please know that he is not only loved by his incredible family and network of close friends...but also by his Mattel family.
There is only one Dom for me.

Love, Ev BTW...his OTIS project was a Plush Puppy that a girl nurtures. I remember it to this day.

From Karen:
Well, I have been reading all of the wonderful entries from everyone and finally decided to write something of my own. I don't know Dom very well; in fact he may not even know who I am. My name is Karen Davies (Smith). My parents are Susan Reep and Mark Smith. Amy was my sister, Jennifer's, nanny when she had her twins about 11 years ago. Also, we were living in Westchester and were part of the Westchester
Work Group along with the Ambrizes, the Behnams, the Twacketts and others. Dom is about 8 years younger than me. I remember him being around, but never talked to him too much.

Anyway, having said all that, I have thoroughly enjoyed all the memories that people have been sharing. I can tell that Dom is well-loved. He is an amazing person, according to all his friends and family - and I'll believe that.

My stories involve Del Taco. We have all learned now that Dom loves Del Taco. Well, I do too. We moved to Colorado 2 years ago and they don't have them there. Almost enough reason to leave. But seriously, Del Taco saved me twice. Once was when I was a freshman or sophomore at BHS. It was 1986 or 1987 and BHS had NO restaurants near it that you could walk to and from in 34 minutes. (Oops, I wasn't allowed to go off campus). Finally a Del Taco opened on the corner of California and Chester. We could walk there, get our tacos, and get back to school right after the tardy bell. Perfect. Before the tardy bell if you were quick.

The 2nd time was in college. It was 1990 and I was going to UCI in Irvine. Again, no restaurants near the campus. I didn't have a car. Thank goodness Del Taco was within walking distance and open 24 hours. We used to go get the Del Beef burritos at midnight. The good old days.

Just thought I'd share what I could. Prayers to Dom, Amy, Don and Jane. - Karen

Beautiful Poetry from Leela

From Leela:
Hi Dom, Janie, Don, Amy--

I thought of you all today when my friend Charlene reminded me, "God's invincible power sweeps everything before it and I ride the wave to my perfect reality." She says that every time she uses this phrase she sees the sea sweeping the sand free of debris leaving it pristine. I like that. Here is another poem from Rilke:

I love the dark hours of my being.
My mind deepens into them.
There I can find, as in old letters,
the days of my life, already lived,
and held like a legend, and understood.

Then the knowing comes: I can open
to another life that's wide and timeless.

So I am sometimes like a tree
rustling over a gravesite
and making real the dream
of the one its living roots
embrace:

a dream once lost
among sorrows and songs.
-Rainer Maria Rilke

to Bring:
Infinite Spirit opens the way
for great abundance, aliveness,
and joy for Dom Ambriz.
He is an irresistible magnet
for all that belongs
to him by divine right.

Thinking of you - Leela

A Table in the Wilderness
by Li-Young Lee

I draw a window
and a man sitting inside it.

I draw a bird in flight above the lintel.

That's my picture of thinking.

If I put a woman there instead
of the man, it's a picture of speaking.

If I draw a second bird
in the woman's lap, it’s ministering.

A third flying below her feet.
Now it's singing.

Or erase the birds
make ivy branching
around the woman's ankles, clinging
to her knees, and it becomes remembering.

You'll have to find your own
pictures, whoever you are,
whatever your need.

As for me, many small hands
issuing from a waterfall
means silence
mothered me.

The hours hung like fruit in night's tree
means when I close my eyes
and look inside me,

a thousand open eyes
span the moment of my waking.

Meanwhile, the clock
adding a grain to a grain
and not getting bigger,

subtracting a day from a day
and never having less, means the honey

lies awake all night
inside the honeycomb
wondering who its parents are.

And even my death isn't my death
unless it's the unfathomed brow
of a nameless face.

Even my name isn't my name
except the bees assemble

a table to grant a stranger
light and moment in a wilderness
of Who? Where?


From Book of My Nights (BOA, 2001) by Li-Young Lee. Copyright © 2001.

Bring It...

From Carrie Buse:
Dom's team at work is called GIRLtronics. We're a motley crew of creative goofballs, so needless to say Dom fits in well. A couple months ago we all agreed to a 30 day fitness challenge. For a $20 entry fee, we each agreed to try to get in shape by losing pounds and body fat and tracking how many steps we walk a day with pedometers. Potential winnings were just under $200, so the motivation was certainly there. On our first day we all had to weigh in and have our body fat tested at the Mattel Fitness Center. For many of us, this was a less than enjoyable experience. But Dom, aka Mr. Marky Mark-body, basically started the fitness test with a perfect score. In fact, I think he was like 1% away from pure godliness. The word "jealousy" doesn't come close! But we're a nice bunch, so the rest of us fatties and slackers managed to keep the envy in check and not doctor his scores. ;)Well, due to many delays and distractions, our 30 day challenge dragged out into something closer to 60 days. In that time, Dom has gotten sicker, but we want him to know he's still very much a part of our challenge. We finally called the winner last week, and we want to share the results with Dom. Here's the email that went out:

Kim Matilla!!!

That's right, Kim lost 1.8 lbs, 0.7% body fat, and took 349,114 steps, bringing her to a total of 365,114 points!!! Yay Kim!!!

Second place goes to yours truly, Carrie Buse, who managed to GAIN 1.1 lbs, lose 2.6% body fat, and walk 303,796 steps for a total of 324,296 points. It should also be noted that I somehow managed to shrink 1.5" in height. Make of that what you will.

Third place is Natalie Repp with a loss of 2.3 lbs, 0.4% body fat, and 278,365 steps. Her point total comes to 293,865. Nat also lost .5" in height. We're all turning into shorties!
Extra Special Consideration goes to Joy Burns who blew us all away on the weight loss by losing 5.1 lbs and on body fat by losing a whopping 7.0%! Holy Mogimbo! I'll have what she's having!

"Special" Consideration (note the quotation marks for emphasis on the word "special") goes to Erich Weidetz who vowed to gain weight, tried getting extra steps by walking to bars, lost his pedometer during a drunken haze, never turned in his weigh-in sheet, and didn't show up for the final weigh-in. Dude, you are my hero.

I hope this has been an inspirational (if dragged out) experience for everyone. Paul and I have discussed hosting a surprise weigh-in sometime in the future, so keep getting fit. You could still win! We'll also set aside some time to discuss toy ideas that came from this exercise.

Yay to everyone and thanks for participating!

From The Bonch Man:
My name is Jesse Easley and I have been friends with Dominic since 1995. We initially met in Mr. Wages Algebra class during our Freshman year at BHS, but were not fast friends, mainly because I was intimidated by Doms long blond hair and giant gold watch, but probably more so because he sat in the corner and didn't say much. He certainly had an intense presence even back then, while I was an awkward, dorky theatre kid from Frazier Park with a fondness for quirky hats. Truthfully, we probably didn't say one word to each other that year. That changed when I joined Mrs. Hanley's Biology class sophomore year. The class was a full blown assortment of comedians, hooligans, and rabble-rousers that would later make up most of the core membership of The OP KFC Mob. For those of you who keep asking yourself "What the hell is this OP that these kids keep mentioning?" All I can say is, if you don't know, you probably won't understand. I will say that we were the single most badass gang of friends to ever grace the halls of Warren or terrorize the park of Kroll, and Dominic was without question our de-facto leader. In Mrs. Hanley's Biology class, I was welcomed with open arms into this very tight clique and Dom and I began our friendship. I was subsequently "jumped in" to the OP, welcomed as a weekly overnight visitor to the Wayne/Tackett house where we would stay up all night partying in "The Phat Cave" and I started being referred to as "The Bonch." Joining this fraternity meant the world to me and my friendship with Dom, The Tacketts, Marshall and everyone in the extended family has been strong ever since. In the 12 years since that time I have considered Dom one of my closest friends, not because we hang out every weekend, or because we have lots of the same interests, truthfully we're as different as two friends could be, but because when we see each other its as if nothing has changed and we're still 17, out to score 40's and girls. One thing that I love most about Dom is his sense of humor. Many of you might not know Dom as a funny person, but he is actually one of the funniest people I have ever met. For my 21st birthday, my parents put together a Vegas trip for me and 3 friends. I invited my two best friends/brothers Dave and Nick, and threw Dom in the mix because he had recently turned 21 as well, and I knew he would make the trip memorable. As we passed through Baker Dom started counting down every mile by saying "One more mile...down the tubes!!!" and kept it up all the way to Vegas. This hilarious quote, which has been repeated countless times over the years, gets no justice in print, I assure you. That first night in Vegas we all learned to play Roulette, partied as hard as could be expected, and kept it going until sunrise when we stepped out onto the strip to discover throngs of Joggers welcoming the nevada morning. Dom forced us to jog back to The Excalibur and as we passed a billboard of Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance, Dom drunkenly pondered "Who the fuck is Michael Flannigan?" which of course received hours of laughter and was added to the all-time favorite list of Dom quotes. There are hundreds of stories like this that I have collected over the years that I couldn't possibly recount here. From stealing beers at Marshall's frat party at Loyola, to taking on 'roiders from Centenial, or filling up the two liter bottles from the keg, to the Carmex story, Dominic Ambriz is and always will be legendary to me!

From the Guiltinans:
Our thoughts and spirit are with you --so much so--that I am typing this a second time because I screwed it up the first time -- blogs -- modern marvels of technology -- well can't complain - it is what has us so updated on Dominic's progress.
We love you and wish you, Mattie, Don, Jane and of course Dom and Scoob all the best in his recovery. If anyone can beat something like this -- it is him. If there is anything we can do for any of you, do not hesitate to let us know.
Everyone who has been blessed with knowing Dominic is a better person for it and this world is a much better place with his influence in it. His great talent and pleasant disposition is second to none and we are all routing for his speedy recovery.
The Guiltinan's

The Dominator

From Valerie:
I have sat down to write something a few times now, but every time my mind fills with too many memories (I am sure I do not have to tell any of you about that). He was my first love, but he is so much more than that. He is an amazing friend.

Long after we broke up (for the last time), we ran into each other at the famed
Sharkeez. We chatted, exchanged numbers, and both went on with our night. In the weeks that followed, we talked a few times and he even gave me some advice about a guy I liked. I think Dom called him a “chump” when I told him that the guy in question didn’t even know I was alive. We both laughed and started to reminisce about things like these:

I am not sure if there is a soul on this Earth (other than maybe the people responsible for making these movies) that has seen all of the Rocky films or the Godfather movies more times. I sat through countless hours as we watched these moves over and over and over again. I think he could have put them on mute and said most of the lines himself. Then there was his art; even at 16 Dom was so talented. He would draw, sculpt, and create all of his masterpieces while Janis Joplin blared on the stereo. I will forever link Me And Bobby McGee with Dom.

Dinner at the Ambriz house was my favorite time! Don and Jane we like second parents and Amy was like the sister I already had, but so much cooler. My sister had left for college when I was 14, so, at 16, having Amy do my hair, give me advice, and treat me like family was a gift. Jane’s Christmas cookies are still the greatest things I have ever tasted (I can taste the peppermint candy cane ones now). Even when Dom obsessed about what he ate and measured his food, he could put away more of those cookies than anyone. I am so blessed to have had the entire Ambriz family in my life, even if it was for a short time.

There are so many more memories: formals and proms, our first date when he picked me up in his big red beast of a car and my dad have me the “ watch out for this guy” look, nights out with his friends who graciously became my friends, Halloween (need I say more?), sitting at Earthworm Studios watching Dom work with his dad, helping him do his Spanish home work for his 2nd or 3rd try at Spanish 1, Dom helping me move into my freshman dorm room at LMU, holding my hand and hugging me as a I cried when my parents said good bye and drove away. He was my rock for so many years (when you are 19, 3 years is a long time) and I am so grateful.

When my grandmother lost her 10-year battle with Cancer, I was 18 and a mess. Don and Jane sent me following hand written poem to help ease my pain. It is now stained with tears and worn at the edges. It hung in all of my dorm rooms, in my all of my college houses, and now hangs in my home office next to the computer. I now send it back to the amazing family that sent it to me. I love you Ambriz Family and you are all in my prayers. BRING IT!!!

Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed a dream.
I was walking along the beach with my Lord. Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonging to me and one to my Lord.

When the last scene of my life shot before me I looked back at the footprints in the sand. There was only one set of footprints. I realized that this was at the lowest and saddest times of my life. This always bothered me and I questioned the Lord about my dilemma.
"Lord, You told me when I decided to follow You, You would walk and talk with me all the way. But I'm aware that during the most troublesome times of my life there is only one set of footprints. I just don't understand why, when I need You most, You leave me."
He whispered, "My precious child, I love you and will never leave you, never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you."

Valerie (Crawford) Thomas

My name is Jeff, and I am the boyfriend of Amy Madrid, Dominic's sister.

Since first meeting Amy, I have heard wonderful stories and glowing memories of her younger brother. Listening to Amy go on about Dom made me envious that she had a brother, because I do not.. Once in a while Amy said I reminded her of her brother, which I now consider to have been the highest possible compliment.

From the few encounters I had with Dominic, I am now more convinced than ever that Amy's recollections of her younger brother were not exaggerated. He is a bright, strong-willed individual who would be a asset to any company, and a good friend to anybody who needed one.

I had heard about the incredible creative achievements: the Pixel Chicks, the Book for Mattie (his niece), and of course, the Masks. But when I walked into his apartment for the first time, nothing could have prepared me for the reaction I had at seeing the art on his walls. Some was macabre, others were super-heroish, but all the items on display gave me an insight into the abilities of this talented man. I was continually reminded of the skill that was needed to produce this work, as I am anything but an artist!

Sitting on the floor in Dom's apartment, right next to some of these amazing works of art, are barbells and weights. After seeing this, I realized the versatility that Dominic must possess. In my mind, I saw an artist who could work tirelessly on artistic projects, and I imagined Dominic putting down his materials and lifting weights to train for a triathlon. How impressive, I thought, was the balance between the mind and the body...

In the brief time I have spent with Dom, I have come to the conclusion that he is a person of high integrity, courage, and discipline. He is engaging without talking very much, and his energy is felt all around him. I really have enjoyed the times that Amy and I have spent with Dominic and his Great Girlfriend, Scoob.

It has been said, by people I respect, that a person makes a statement by the way he lives his life. Dominic has been an inspiration to me in the way he never gives up, and his love of family and friends will remain with me for the rest of my days.
Jeff Lavin, A New Friend Of Dominic Ambriz

The Dominator

DOM- Thinking back on when I first met you at Emerson Jr. High I remember sharing a class... You sat by me most of the year but we didn’t talk much until I heard you talking about a documentary about “white ganstas” in Little Rock Arkansas. It’s funny because I had watched the same documentary. We both thought it was the dorkiest thing we had seen...white guys pretending to be ganstas? (especially when we were surrounded by real ganstas at Emerson) until we decided to be the first original white ganstas in Bako.

It may have been your gansta ways or that perfect mushroom haircut...whatever it was, I knew we would be friends for a very long time and it was just about time to bust down the doors at BHS...

Dom was that guy in high school. The guy that most guys want to be like. I think back to summers at the Ambriz’s house- swimming (red & white striped or blue & white striped shorts for the guests) and watching Dom make masks. I say watching because when I tried to pitch in and make a mold for a mask, Dom wouldn’t let me use the latex (he didn’t want to waste it). When Amy got her new gold Honda Accord she would give us rides to the Valley Plaza with E40's Sprinkle Me blasting in the background so loud you couldn’t hear yourself think. Watching Mike Tyson’s first fight since being in jail...we were all excited, gathered around in the den. We couldn’t get enough of Coolio’s Dangerous Minds soundtrack. Spring Break in San Diego when you introduced me to Blink 182. Boxing in your backyard and watching you take on newcomers at Kroll Park. Then we decided to become pros and join Strong Bo’s... Remember Chuck the boxing coach- the only thing he was good at was killing a bucket of KFC!!!

After graduation you went to art school, and then a job at Mattel. I always brag about you saying, “My friend Dominic is such a talented artist...he designs toys for a living.” (That is the coolest thing I have ever heard of!) I am so glad you and Scoob got together...it brought you back to Bakersfield so often- almost like you lived here again. I was always bummed when I had to work but it’s a good thing the Tackets live so close to 3-way, I could sneak over and catch a little football with you on Sundays. We share a love for working out, the UFC, Kimbo Slice, white t’s, family, friends, and a good laugh. YOU ARE THE STRONGEST GUY I KNOW...BRING IT.
Justin “Peto” Hallgren

From Kathleen Faulkner:
Dom, We had the privilege of having you and your family as our neighbors on B St. several years when you were a baby. I didn't get to see you much after you moved but we have been friends with your extended family for many years (since 1964). Obviously in the years that passed, you have made an indelible mark in the world that will be an inspiration for all of us and to the others whose lives you have touched. Know that all our hearts are fervent with love and concern for you and your family in your struggle. God be with you and your family always. Your friends, the Kathleen and the rest of the Faulkner Family.

From Megan Simon:
Dom-the-bomb, we all love you and it is very evident. How heartwarming it is for me to read each message; i can only imagine how amazing it feels for you to grasp the love encompassing you. Even a complete stranger would be certain of how great you are just by seeing the wonderful and loyal people that you have chosen to be your friends and by the strong family you have come from. Their character is a reflection of yours.

(Thank you so much to everyone involved in creating this blog so that we all can stay informed and also share our feelings- you have done a wonderful job)

I have been a quiet spectator until now, but i must say that i commend your friends and family members for their unwaivering support and strength they have lent to you. What an impact they have made and what an example they have set. There is no one more worthy of so much affection.

Lots of love to you Dom, and big HUGS to everyone.

Megan Simon