My name is Erica. I'm 38 years old. And in 2024, right before my 37th birthday, my life changed forever when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. What began as uncertainty quickly became a journey filled with challenges, changes, strength, and resilience. It was just 2 months later they discovered that my cancer had already spread to my spine and determined I had stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.

I am a proud mom of three and a devoted wife to my husband, best friend, and soulmate. We were married on March 5, 2010, but our story began many years earlier. After years of friendship dating back to 1996, we became a couple on March 5, 2006. Together, we built a life centered around love, family, and always being there for one another.

When cancer entered my life, everything changed. Suddenly, my days became filled with treatments, medications, appointments, and the emotional and physical challenges that come with fighting this disease. My body changed in ways beyond my control, and life no longer looked the way I had imagined. But even during the hardest moments, I refused to let cancer define who I am.

Through every challenge, I have remained hopeful and determined. The unwavering love and support from my family, friends, and care team have given me strength on even the most difficult days. Their encouragement reminds me daily that I am never fighting alone.

This year, I will be proudly celebrating two years of survivorship in September. And I look forward to celebrating many more. My journey has taught me the importance of hope, perseverance, and the power of love and support.

To anyone facing cancer or any difficult battle in life, I want you to know this: you are stronger than you realize, and you are never alone.

I got this. We got this. You've got this.

Here's to survivorship, strength, courage, and continuing to fight every single day.