A Shocking Diagnosis and a Fight for Life
Erika Carr, a 33-year-old single mother from Ogden, Utah, received the devastating news that no parent wants to hear — she has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Small Cell Lung Carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Despite battling the illness courageously for over two years, Carr recently learned that the disease has reached a critical stage, giving her only three months left to live.
A Mother’s Love: Putting Family First
For Erika, the most difficult part of this journey is leaving behind her two young children, seven-year-old Jeremiah and five-year-old Aaliyah. “My kids are my whole life, light, and soul,” she shared. “They’re what keeps me going.” The devoted mother has decided to stop all treatment and spend her remaining days creating lasting memories with her children.
The Initial Diagnosis
The nightmare began on May 7, 2022, just one day before Mother’s Day. Carr visited the hospital for what she thought was a minor shoulder injury but left with a terminal diagnosis. Doctors discovered that she had Stage 4 Small Cell Lung Cancer, a “high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma” known for its rapid spread and low survival rate. The news sent shockwaves through her family and friends, but Erika was determined to fight with everything she had.
Battling the Odds
Despite the grim prognosis, Erika remained hopeful and fought the disease for over two years with a mix of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries. There were moments of optimism — clear scans that allowed her to temporarily halt treatment. But in January 2024, she faced another devastating setback when she was diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome, a rare disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.
Complications of Cushing’s Syndrome
The onset of Cushing’s syndrome drastically affected Erika’s health and quality of life. The condition led to rapid weight gain — over 60 pounds in just a few weeks — as well as severe muscle and bone deterioration, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes. It even affected her ability to walk, leaving her more reliant on others for support.
A Heartbreaking Decision
On September 18, 2024, doctors informed Erika that her cancer had progressed to a point where further treatment would be ineffective. With a heavy heart, she made the difficult decision to discontinue her treatments and focus on spending her remaining time with her children. “Three months to spend with my babies and loved ones,” she wrote on her GoFundMe page. “Three months to make the best of what time I have left.”
Planning for the Future
One of the most heart-wrenching tasks Erika faced was planning for her own funeral. Concerned about leaving her children with nothing, she started a GoFundMe campaign with a modest goal of $5,000 to cover funeral expenses and provide a small safety net for her kids.
An Outpouring of Support
What happened next was nothing short of miraculous. Erika’s story touched the hearts of thousands across the country. Donations poured in, surpassing her initial goal by an astounding margin. In just a few weeks, the campaign raised over $750,000 from more than 26,000 donors.
Turning Grief Into Hope
The overwhelming response allowed Erika to create a trust fund for her children, ensuring they would be financially secure in the years to come. “It happened overnight,” she told ABC4. “I never expected to have a big funeral service, or a lot of people reach out and help me. I’m just in shock … just very grateful for everybody and everything that’s been there.”
Embracing Her Final Months
Now, Erika is making the most of her remaining time. She’s spending every moment she can with Jeremiah and Aaliyah, creating memories that they can hold onto long after she’s gone. The family plans to go camping and hopes to celebrate one more Christmas together. “I just want to spend time with my children without being sick from treatments and medications,” she said. “I want to make the best of what time I have left.”
The Power of a Mother’s Love
Throughout her battle, Erika has maintained a focus on her children’s well-being. She is determined to leave them with a legacy of love and strength. “My children are my fight,” she said. “They’re the reason I’ve kept going all this time.”
Messages of Support and Comfort
Since sharing her story, Erika has received countless messages of support and encouragement. “Your story touched my heart deeply,” wrote one donor. “I’m praying for your comfort and strength in these final months.” Another supporter offered to help with meals, toys, and Halloween costumes for the kids.
Finding Peace in Community
Erika’s cousin, Angelique Rivera, shared a touching photo of her children hugging their mother on a hospital bed, highlighting the love and resilience that define Erika’s journey. “We are at a loss for words and could never say thank you enough,” Rivera wrote. The family’s courage and gratitude have inspired people across the country to rally around them in this difficult time.
The Importance of Sharing Her Story
For Erika, sharing her story was initially a difficult decision. She had kept her illness a secret for as long as she could, embarrassed by the physical toll it had taken on her body. “I have been ashamed and embarrassed for people to know the truth,” she admitted on her GoFundMe page. But the overwhelming support has shown her that she is not alone in this fight.
A Lasting Impact
In addition to the financial support, Erika’s story has raised awareness about the challenges faced by those battling terminal illnesses. It has also shed light on the importance of community and compassion. “All the funds that have exceeded my funeral costs will now be put into a trust fund for my babies,” she shared. “That way I can still ensure they are going to be okay as they grow up.”
What’s Next for the Family?
As Erika enters her final months, she is focusing on making the most of every day. Whether it’s reading bedtime stories, taking family photos, or simply holding her kids close, she is determined to leave them with memories of a mother who loved them deeply.
Cherishing the Time Left
“It’s not about the quantity of time, but the quality,” she said. “I want them to remember the laughter, the hugs, and the love.” Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the boundless power of a mother’s love.
A Community United in Compassion
Erika’s journey has brought together people from all walks of life, united by a desire to help a family in need. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we come together to support one another.
How You Can Help
If you would like to support Erika and her family, you can visit her GoFundMe page and make a donation. Every contribution, big or small, will go toward ensuring that her children have the resources they need as they navigate life without their mother.
Final Words of Gratitude
“Me and my family thank you ALL from the bottom of our hearts!” Erika wrote. “I’m just so thankful for everyone who has been there for me and my kids. You’ve given me peace of mind in these final days.”
Cherish Every Moment
Erika’s story is a poignant reminder to cherish every moment we have with our loved ones. In the face of unimaginable hardship, she has shown us all what true strength and love look like.
Stay tuned for more updates on Erika’s journey and find out how you can continue to support her family during this challenging time.
