[Source – timesofindia.indiatimes.com]
Erika Diarte-Carr, a 30-year-old mother from Utah, has been fighting a rare and aggressive form of cancer for two years. Diagnosed with small cell lung carcinoma in May 2022, what began as a shoulder injury turned into a life-changing battle for her and her two young children, Jeremiah (7) and Aaliyah (5). Doctors discovered that Erika’s cancer had metastasized to other parts of her body, including her skeletal system, causing the shoulder pain she initially experienced.
The diagnosis not only shocked Erika but also marked the beginning of a painful journey. Reflecting on her diagnosis, Erika recalled the doctor’s words, “I hope you have a good support system at home because you’re going to need it.” With this prognosis, her life, and the lives of her children, changed dramatically. Over time, Erika faced surgeries, biopsies, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments while also maintaining her full-time job and fulfilling her duties as a mother.
A Complicated Health Struggle
As if the cancer diagnosis wasn’t enough, Erika Diarte-Carr was further burdened by a diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome in January 2024. This rare disorder, caused by an overproduction of cortisol, compounded her health issues. Erika experienced rapid weight gain, swelling, high blood pressure, and muscle and bone deterioration, which severely impacted her ability to walk and live a normal life.
Despite her deteriorating condition, Erika continued working, taking only brief time off to deal with her medical treatments. The pressure on her physical, emotional, and financial well-being mounted, but with the help of her support system, she pushed through. However, her latest oncologist visit on September 18, 2024, brought devastating news. The treatments were no longer effective, and Erika was given three months to live.
Now, faced with the hardest task of planning her own funeral, Erika has shifted her focus to ensuring her children will be taken care of after she’s gone. She decided to discontinue treatments and spend her remaining time with her loved ones, preparing her kids for a future without her.
A Community Rallies Around Erika Diarte-Carr
Realizing she needed help, Erika launched a GoFundMe campaign with a modest goal of $5,000 to cover her funeral costs. However, the outpouring of support was overwhelming. As of Sunday, September 29, 2024, the campaign had raised over $900,000 from more than 30,000 donors. The additional funds will go into a trust for her children’s future.
Erika expressed her surprise and gratitude for the unexpected response, saying, “I never expected to have a big funeral service or a lot of people reach out and help me. With the way it’s gone, I’m just in shock … just very grateful for everybody and everything that’s been there.”
Though she admitted feeling “ashamed and embarrassed” to share the reality of her diagnosis, Erika’s courage in asking for help has not only secured her funeral arrangements but also provided a future safety net for her children. The overwhelming support she has received from friends, family, and strangers alike is a testament to the power of community in times of need.
With the help of her medical team and loved ones, Erika is now focusing on making the most of the time she has left with her children, ensuring they are prepared for life after her passing.
