Chances are you’ve seen them meandering down San Benito Street,
or maybe shooting the breeze with other locals on a quiet weekend
afternoon.
Hollister – Chances are you’ve seen them meandering down San Benito Street, or maybe shooting the breeze with other locals on a quiet weekend afternoon.
Brothers Kirk and Eric Tognazzini have become, other the years, something of a local institution. But neither, Kirk believes, would be anything without the close bond the two share.
“I always make sure he’s (Eric) is all right,” he said. “But mostly we look out for each other.”
The Tognazzini brothers were born and bred in Hollister and have spent their entire lives here. As children, both were afflicted with cerebral palsy, a chronic disorder which primarily afflicts one’s motor development. While Kirk’s symptoms were successfully managed, Eric would spend the rest of his life confined to a wheelchair. As adults, Kirk took on the responsibility of caring for his brother and the two share a home near the city’s downtown area.
“For the most part he handles himself,” Kirk said. “I just make sure he’s dressed warmly enough, see that he eats, and then he does whatever he wants.”
The pair stay actively involved in their community. Eric is a firm believer in recycling and can often be seen around town collecting cans, as a way to both do his part for the environment and earn a little extra spending cash.
At least once a week, Kirk volunteers his time at the Community Pantry, bagging groceries for the less fortunate and helping out in any capacity deemed necessary. He also makes a point of volunteering for any community organization in need or just lending his neighbors a hand.
“It makes you feel good about yourself,” he said. “I don’t think there’s any better way to spend your time. And if you’re out there, donating your time, then other people are encouraged to do the same.”
While Kirk is the first to admit that caring for a disabled sibling can be a challenge, he says that the load is made easier thanks to a supportive community.
“People are always telling me that I’m a good guy, that it’s great that I’m taking care of him,” he said. “Everyone in town loves Eric. Being his brother and looking out for him is the best thing I do.”
Occasionally, Kirk says, strangers make hurtful remarks about his brother’s disability. Instead of responding in kind, however, he believes the teasing is a prime opportunity to educate people about Eric’s condition.
“The only people who make fun of Eric are new to town, they don’t understand his handicap,” he said. “I try to explain to people what life is like for him. It’s not easy, but people don’t say much once you try and teach them… no one in town likes it when someone’s mean to Eric, either.”
In their spare time, the dynamic duo enjoy television and karaoke nights at various downtown establishments. Kirk admits to being a bit of a thrill seeker when he gets the chance, having once driven to Salinas in less than 20 minutes at 120mph the entire way.
Currently, the Tognazzini brothers are looking forward to Eric’s 60th birthday this June, and are already planning a giant party to celebrate. Long term, however, the two have simpler plans. Namely, to stay in their hometown.
“We’ve lived here our entire lives and this is where we’re going to stay,” Kirk said. “This way I can stay close to my brother, and that’s how it should be. Family first.”
Danielle Smith covers education for the Free Lance. Reach her at 637-5566, ext. 336 or ds****@fr***********.com
