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Dear Zach....

Dear Zach,

 Almost three weeks ago, you surprised us with such scary and unsettling news.  We were shocked to learn you had suffered a massive seizure and (possible) blood clot that sent you to the hospital.

Despite your medical team's best efforts, you were unable to recover from your injuries. On Friday night, your family made the very difficult decision to remove the machines helping you breathe and keeping your heart pumping.  You passed to the other side at about 5:30 Sunday morning.  I miss you already.
Me and Zach sharing a funny moment on stage
Zach, I first met you when Roger and I were introduced to ComedySportz in November 2012 as part of a Richmond Mom and CJSTUF fundraiser.  I immediately knew that you were more than a talented improviser. You were a genuinely nice person, a good friend, and a great teacher. I learned so much about the world of improv from you.  I enjoyed reading your perspectives on comedy on your blog.  You always encouraged me, a naive improviser, with the best critiques. Your notes for improvement rarely were, "Don't do that."  Rather, they were usually, "Be brave! Try something new! You can do it!" It's hard to believe this you would have any insecurity in your performance. You made it look effortless. Perhaps, though, that insecurity solidified your belief in these words that were a running theme at our regular troupe rehearsals and performances:   
"I’m going to perform. And if I fail, it’s okay. I have people there to support me, or fail with me in a grand spectacle." [Zach Arnold, Nov. 2013]

 Those were your instructions towards improv in a nutshell. If we were going to fail, we should do it gloriously. If our partner failed, we should back 'em up.  

I think you were my favorite CSZ ref (no offense to the other amazing troupe members we know). With you at the helm, we always knew we were going to have a great show. When you were our captain, I knew you had your back.  When I had the opportunity to watch you perform, I was floored by your talent.

 Zach, like our other CSZ troupe member who left us far too soon, you leave a huge hole in the RVA comedy community and in our hearts. I cherish every moment I got to spend on stage with you.  I couldn't bring myself to say goodbye in the hospital, so I just hope you know how much you meant to all of us. May you join the greats in that Comedy Club in the sky.  See you on the flip side.  

 Much love,
Rachel  

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