Eddie was born and raised in Lansdowne, where at the age of 2, he contracted polio. He was in and out of hospital clinics for much of his early life, but with a strong family and positive attitude, he was able to overcome the disease to become an outstanding athlete. At Monsignor Bonner High, Eddie played football and rowed on the crew team. After becoming very interested in weight training, he entered the New Jersey State Power-Lifting Championship and broke the national record in the bench press. Later, he was introduced to the world of sports for the disabled, and for the next ten years became one of the most decorated athletes in Delco history. He won 4 Pan American gold medals, 3 World Championships, 2 Olympic gold medals, and 1 silver. Between 1970 and 1980, he captured 10 National Championships and set 23 world records.