My cousin Erika has always been one of the most resilient and intelligent people I’ve ever known. Throughout her life she has met every challenge with curiosity, strength, and a resolute determination to keep moving forward. And so I have not been surprised to see those same qualities emerge throughout this past year as she battled cancer and a slew of other chronic medical complexities. Erika told me she had cancer by walking me through a powerpoint presentation, which I think perfectly exemplifies not only her one-of-a-kind personality but also the pragmatic, logical, and confident thinking that she has tried so hard to maintain while getting pummeled by one major health issue after another. I know that this past year has been a humbling lesson for Erika, a reminder that no matter how organized and persistent you are, sometimes you feel overwhelmed and need to ask for help. At this point, with just over $100,000 in medical debt exclusively from this past year, helping to ease her financial burden would make a huge difference to her mental health, stress level, and overall life. I finally convinced Erika to allow me to set up a GoFundMe for her (she resisted for a while!). Any small amount that you can contribute helps. Please read below for an honest, vulnerable, and detailed message from Erika that provides greater context into her cancer journey, as well as other medical and emotional hurdles she has faced. Please know that your contribution – no matter the amount – to help ease Erika’s medical debt speaks volumes and offers a much needed reminder that she’s not up against all this alone.

A message from Erika:

Over the past year, I’ve faced an incredibly complex and unexpected medical journey. What began with an abnormal Pap smear and severe pelvic pain led to multiple biopsies and scans — and ultimately, the discovery of two separate, non-touching cervical tumors, each a different type and grade of cancer.

Although every test before surgery suggested uterine cancer, my post-surgical pathology revealed something much rarer:

These were two distinct cancers on opposite sides of my cervix that were not touching or connected — a very rare presentation. I had major surgery that removed my cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, some pelvic tissue, and three lymph nodes. Both tumors were removed with clear margins, meaning no visible cancer remained after surgery, and I was considered in remission.

The pathology was unusually complex — not only due to the two cancers, but also because my uterus showed adenomyosis, endometriosis, and a large grade 4 fibroid, which made the tissue extremely difficult to interpret. During surgery, three sentinel lymph nodes were removed and all tested negative for cancer, indicating it hadn’t yet spread to those nodes. However, cancerous cells were found in the lymphatic channels connecting my cervix to those lymph nodes, putting me at higher risk for recurrence.

My case was reviewed by multiple tumor boards and specialists across the country because of its rare and complicated nature. After extensive consultation, it was determined that while I met some risk factors for chemotherapy and radiation (known as the Sedlis criteria), the decision was made to closely monitor me instead of beginning treatment right away.

Since surgery, I’ve faced additional medical challenges, including recurrent MRSA infections, ongoing issues related to chronic hormone imbalance, and pelvic floor dysfunction. In April 2025, a PET/CT scan was performed, but the results were difficult to interpret due to significant systemic inflammation. Another PET/CT in September 2025 showed new areas of concern in my left breast, which led to a diagnostic mammogram and inconclusive breast ultrasound. My doctors have now ordered a breast MRI, but insurance has denied coverage, despite the lack of clear imaging results.

In June 2025, I fell down the stairs while carrying my senior dog and fractured three ribs. The imaging done to assess my ribs also revealed an enlarged spleen, adding yet another layer to the ongoing monitoring of my liver, kidneys, and other organs.

One of the most difficult parts of this journey has been navigating insurance denials. Many of the medications that would help reduce inflammation and support hormone balance — both essential for recovery and prevention of recurrence — are not covered by insurance and are extremely expensive out of pocket.

On top of the medical challenges, this year has also been filled with deep emotional loss. My 18-year-old dog, Fleefs, passed away from nasal adenocarcinoma earlier this year, and my 15-year-old dog, Koda, was diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma 2 days after Fleefs’ passing. He’s now in decline, and we’re treasuring the time we have left with him.

Between the medical bills, ongoing imaging, specialist visits, infection management, and the cost of uncovered medications, the financial strain has become overwhelming. Every contribution to this fundraiser will go directly toward medical expenses, follow-up imaging, prescriptions, and continued care, allowing me to focus on healing, stability, and the time I have left with Koda after an extraordinarily difficult year.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and supporting me through this journey.