Hello Friends and Family,

As some of you may know, on November 14th, at just 40 years old my sister, Erica, was diagnosed with breast cancer — Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, grade 1, stage IB, 22mm, ER+, PR+, HER-. We are grateful that her self-advocacy led to early detection but these past few weeks have been a whirlwind of appointments, tests, research, and big decisions.

My sister’s journey began when she found a lump on her breast and was sent for a mammogram and ultrasound. Afterwards, the radiologist ordered a biopsy and also shared concern about an enlarged lymph node. Two weeks later, Erica went in for a biopsy of the lump and the following afternoon she received the call telling her she had cancer; news that no one wants to hear. She and the family rallied together to begin her fight. The following week she met with a breast surgeon to discuss her treatment options.

Since the diagnosis, Erica has undergone numerous tests, including a lymph node biopsy, MRI, bone scan, CT, and genetic testing. Fortunately, all of the results have been clear so far, with the exception of another lymph node that will require a PET scan.

Erica is scheduled to have a lumpectomy along with a sentinel node biopsy on December 18th, which will be followed by 5 weeks of radiation therapy. Chemotherapy may also be necessary, but that decision depends on what they find during her surgery.

Medical bills have already begun to accumulate and I am hoping that we can take some stress away by easing some of their financial burden.

My sister is an amazing mother to her three children, a loving wife, daughter, sister, and friend. Anyone who knows Erica and Matt, knows that they rarely ask for help, but as they navigate this challenging time they’ll need all the support and love we can provide. Cancer is not only a battle for survival but also a battle which affects every aspect of life—mentally, emotionally, and financially.

Your contribution, whether through donation or sharing her story, will help Erica and her family immensely. Even just sharing my sister’s story with others would help to raise awareness about the importance of preventive care and self-advocacy. Your generosity means the world to their family, and every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to supporting Erica’s path to recovery.

Thank you for your love and support, and for standing by her side during her fight against Breast Cancer.