A Heartbreaking Diagnosis
Erika Carr, a 30-year-old single mother from Ogden, Utah, has been given just three months to live after a two-year battle with Stage 4 Small Cell Lung Carcinoma — a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer. As she faces the unimaginable, Erika has decided to spend her remaining time focused on what matters most: her two children, Jeremiah, 7, and Aaliyah, 5.
The journey hasn’t been easy, but Erika’s resilience and determination have touched thousands of people across the country. Supporters have rallied around her, contributing to a GoFundMe campaign that has surpassed all expectations, raising over $750,000.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
Erika’s battle began on May 7, 2022, just one day before Mother’s Day. What she thought was a routine visit to the doctor turned into a nightmare when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Small Cell Lung Cancer, also known as “high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma.” The cancer, known for its rapid spread and low survival rate, brought an uncertain future.
At the time, doctors gave her little hope and a long road ahead. “I hope you have a good support system at home because you’re going to need it,” one of her doctors told her, preparing her for the difficult journey that lay ahead.
A Glimmer of Hope
For a brief period, there seemed to be light at the end of the tunnel. Erika’s condition showed signs of improvement, and positive scans allowed her to temporarily stop treatment. During this time, she hoped to regain her strength and spend more time with her kids without the burden of treatments.
However, in January 2024, Erika developed Cushing’s syndrome — a rare hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. The syndrome led to rapid weight gain, swelling, muscle and bone deterioration, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes, further complicating her already challenging health situation.
The Final Diagnosis
By September 18, 2024, doctors delivered another devastating blow: the cancer had aggressively returned, and treatment options were no longer effective. With just three months left to live, Erika made the brave decision to discontinue treatment and focus on making memories with her children.
“My kids are my whole life, light, and soul … and what keeps me going,” Erika shared. Her only wish now is to spend her remaining days cherishing every moment with them.
Planning for the Future
One of the most difficult tasks Erika faced was planning for her own funeral. With limited financial resources and no life insurance, she turned to GoFundMe to raise a modest $5,000 to cover funeral expenses and, if possible, leave a small amount for her children’s future.
But what happened next left Erika speechless.
An Outpouring of Support
Within days of sharing her story, Erika’s GoFundMe page went viral. Donations poured in from people all over the country, surpassing her initial goal many times over. In a matter of weeks, the campaign had raised over $750,000 from more than 26,000 donors.
“It happened overnight. I never expected that,” Erika 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.”
A Trust Fund for Her Children
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity, Erika has been able to set up a trust fund for Jeremiah and Aaliyah, ensuring that they will have some financial stability as they grow up. This peace of mind has been a blessing during an otherwise heartbreaking time.
“All the funds that have exceeded my funeral cost will now be put into a trust fund for my babies, that way I can leave behind something for them and I can still ensure they are going to be ok as they grow up,” she shared.
A Community Comes Together
The outpouring of support for Erika’s campaign has been a powerful reminder of the good that can come from community and compassion. People from all walks of life have reached out to offer words of encouragement, prayers, and donations.
“I’m praying so hard for her comfort and for her sweet babies who will have to navigate without their mommy,” wrote one donor. “This story ripped me apart. Please God watch over these beautiful people.”
Another supporter asked, “Is there anything else we can do? Meals? Halloween costumes? Her story has touched so many!!”
Finding Peace
With the help of her community, Erika has been able to focus on what truly matters: spending time with her children and creating lasting memories. The family plans to take a camping trip and is hopeful that Erika will be able to experience one last Christmas with her kids.
“It’s not about the quantity of time, but the quality,” Erika said. “I want them to remember the laughter, the hugs, and the love.”
Inspiring Hope Amid Tragedy
Erika’s story has not only raised awareness about the challenges faced by families dealing with terminal illness but has also highlighted the incredible impact that generosity and kindness can have. What began as a desperate plea for help has turned into a testament to the power of human compassion.
While nothing can take away the pain of leaving her children behind, knowing that they will be cared for has brought Erika a sense of peace.
Supporting Families Facing Terminal Illness
Erika’s experience is, unfortunately, not unique. Thousands of families across the country are struggling with terminal diagnoses and the emotional and financial burdens that come with them. By sharing her story, Erika hopes to inspire others to support those facing similar challenges.
If you would like to support Erika and her family, you can visit her GoFundMe page. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help ensure that Jeremiah and Aaliyah have a brighter future.
A Mother’s Legacy
As Erika spends her final days surrounded by loved ones, she is determined to leave a legacy of love and strength for her children. “My children are my fight,” she said. “They’re the reason I’ve kept going all this time.”
Erika’s courage and the overwhelming support of her community serve as a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and love.
Final Thoughts
Erika Carr’s journey is one of immense courage, resilience, and hope. As she prepares to say goodbye to her children, she leaves behind not only financial support but also a story of love and determination that will resonate long after she’s gone.
For now, Erika is focused on making the most of every moment, filling her children’s lives with as much love and joy as possible. And thanks to the generosity of strangers, she has the peace of mind knowing that Jeremiah and Aaliyah will be taken care of.
Stay tuned for more updates on Erika’s journey, and please consider contributing to her cause if you can. Every little bit helps make a difference in the lives of two children who are about to face an unimaginable loss.
