In Loving Memory of Andy Erickson

*Edit 6/17* Cancer affects millions of people every year. It does not discriminate: it chooses people of every race, of every age, of every life style. It offers no answers or explanations, makes no promises. It confounds even the most specialized and educated of doctors. Sometimes, it sneaks into our systems, creeps through our bodies over time; other times it is cured, and if we're lucky, never seen again; and, sometimes, it hits with the force of a tornado, devouring us whole before we even see it coming. Millions lose their lives to this deadly disease, and even more are left in the devastating wake of loss. My family's story is no more painful or tragic than those millions. We all experience hardship and grief in life, struggle and hope to make ends meet, do what we must to survive. We put one foot in front of the other, day by day. The only difference between my and my mother's situation and any other is YOU. How we handle things, bounce back, is often the result of the people who surround us. It is what we contribute to each other's lives. It is your connection to me, or my mother, or my father. It's the laughter and memories we've shared. It is the tie that binds us together, through kindness and compassion. Or, if we've never met, it is the empathy we experience through shared, similar pain. It is the time we take out of our busy days, our own battles and journeys, to let someone know we care. It is the greatest beauty in human nature: Love. Today, after innumerable calls, texts, emails, and amazingly generous donations from people of both my past and present, I feel luckier than most. I feel loved and supported, and for that, I am rich beyond measure. No amount of money or words can replace a loved one, but neither can anything replace the feeling of being cared for in times of pain. And because of you, your emails, texts, calls, donations, and love, you have changed two lives. Two people will be able to put one foot in front of the other, day by day, a little more easily. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
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In the early hours of June 15, 2016, my father, Andy Erickson, 74, lifetime resident of Issaquah, Washington, lost his battle to cancer.

He was a devoted husband, loving father, dedicated provider, and an amazing example for me growing up and into adulthood - of not just a father, husband, or man - he set the standard for the kind of person I always want to be. I'm going to miss him terribly.

He died just 2 days after his 45th wedding anniversary, and 1 day after the conclusion of a grueling radiation schedule we had all hoped would buy him more time. At the time of his diagnosis, the cancer had already spread to his brain, spinal cord, and lungs. He was projected to have 3-6 months, possibly up to 9 months with radiation. We got 5 weeks. I'm grateful for the time we had, yet the unexpected, accelerated pace has left my mother with a stack of hospital bills, uncovered ambulance rides and a limited amount of income. My mother's greatest asset is her home, which she shared with my father for the whole of their marriage. The thought of her losing her home now, leaving behind the memories she shared as a family, is beyond devastating. Unfortunately, I don't have the funds to make much of an impact. I eventually expect to move in with her and contribute, but the next few months will be incredibly hard on both of us. My mother, Judy Erickson, is a selfless, generous, strong woman, who will not ask for help. My entire life, I have seen her tirelessly give of herself, again and again, with no expectations of return. She is always the one who offers the help, not the one who accepts it. In the hours following my dad's death, she was already talking about what she could sell off to make ends meet. It broke my heart. It's not easy to reach out in times of need - pride is a large hurdle to overcome - so I'm doing it for her, in hopes we can help her, and preserve my father's memory in the home they spent years loving, living, and raising a family. Any amount you are willing to contribute, no matter how small, would make an incredible difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by so many compassionate, loving friends. Blessings to all. I love you forever, mom and dad!