I met Erica at the beginning of 2016, during her first yoga class. After our introduction she smiled and apologetically laughed that her abs were weak.  I told her not to worry...the foundation of our practice was built on working the core.  The first class was tough, I could see it; and yet Erica kept coming back, she got stronger, she held crow, and eventually signed up for our first teacher training.   Erica never once mentioned complained, or created a story about the surgeries she had already endured, the cancer she had already fought and won.  She simply continued to state that, "my core needs work."  

Over the course of the next year she became my friend, and through bookclubs, pints of beer, and lots of inquiry I learned that Erica's core was weak because those core muscles were collateral damage in her successful fight against Ovarian Cancer, at age 31.  
Erica wasn't bitter about cancer, even though I could see sadness when people discussed having children.  
Erica wasn't outwardly angry, despite having spent the first few years newlywed life in and out of hospitals.  
Erica was joyful, happy, grateful for her dog, camping trips, and magical Caseville sunsets.  

Erica lives in the present. 

And cancer does too.  

This fall Erica learned it was back, a different, rare form of Ovarian cancer that has spread to her hip and pelvic bone.  Erica initially had radiation treatment to bring some relief; however, it didn't due much to minimize the pain. So, our brave friend has decided on a different course of action. A clinical trial through the University of Michigan.  A fight, as she texted me, for her life.  

Cancer treatment is not cheap.  The trial requires CT and PET scans every four week and new medications for pain.  Erica must also travel out of state for second opinions.  The CT scans are $1200 each and the PET scans are $5000 each.  Her medications for pain are upwards of $400/month. The travel is not covered.

Erica, a dental hygenist cannot work during treatment; and her husband Andy must take off significant time from work to drive her to and from treatment. 

Andy and Erica have so much support from friends & family, and they need more. 

This winter I asked Erica if she wanted to be the recipient of or Community Yoga funds and she declined, she said the coats for the homeless was a bigger concern.  This is how Erica shows up for the world, for everyone; and today, as piece of mind for Erica and Andy, we are asking you to show up BIG for them, donating whatever you can for our STRONG, BRAVE friend.  

We all love you and are with you both,
Laura