Erica and her family on their healing journey

We are setting up this Go Fund Me for our sister Erica and her family. Just over two weeks ago, Erica’s 3-year old daughter Claire was diagnosed with a Wilms tumour. She has just completed surgery to remove the tumour and one of her kidneys and will soon start treatment including chemotherapy and possibly radiation in the coming weeks.

This will be a long healing journey for Claire and will require Erica to be off of work to care for her full time for 8 months or more. Erica also has a 5-year old son, Ryan, whose life has also just turned upside down and we all want to support them as a family.

We know Erica is not super comfortable with us fundraising on her behalf, it feels awkward and the last thing she would want is for people to feel like they have to do anything.

Yet, given how stressful and sudden this situation has transpired, and the many unknowns ahead, we would like to help alleviate some of the financial burden that Erica is going to face. The funds will help to support securing short and long-term housing, expenses for medical equipment and additional supports needed at home, food and comforts while at the hospital and any and all items Erica may need to get through this difficult time.

Erica is amazing. She is resilient and watching her advocate for herself as a hard of hearing woman in the health system is inspiring. She is fiercely advocating for her daughter at every stage while being so patient and nurturing of Claire’s needs and wants. To witness the true love and dedication she has for her children is truly remarkable. We all need more Erica’s in the world.

It’s hard to make sense of life sometimes, why do these things happen? Yet, we are optimistic, thankful for the fabulous team at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), grateful for our incredible family, extended family, friends, community and everyone in between that have been there and expressed their love and support for Erica and her family.

We know this may come as a surprise to some. Erica has requested that if you would like further information, please reach out to one of us (her family members) as she has been overwhelmed with love and messages and may not be able to respond in a timely way.

With love,

Erica’s Family