Erin & Erik Schmidt Family Fund

*Update: With the heaviest of hearts, we wanted to let you know that our tiny warrior, James Lloyd Schmidt, passed away on July 11. He was 2 weeks and 1 day old. He fought until he just couldn't fight anymore, and we are grateful to have known him for those two short weeks. We find comfort in knowing that he is now resting in peace alongside his beautiful mom, Erin.

While this unthinkable tragedy has shaken us all, there is great beauty in the outpouring of support from friends and strangers alike. Words cannot express how grateful Erik and his family are to everyone who has donated and supported him through this most difficult time. As hospital bills begin trickling in, we can assure you every bit is appreciated beyond measure and will be used to help Erik and the girls pave this new and uncertain path ahead.

Erin was admitted to the hospital in Fargo on the evening of 6/24. She had been suffering from back pain for some time during her pregnancy. After she arrived at the hospital, they identified her liver was not functioning well. They could not determine the cause of her poor liver function in Fargo and she was subsequently flown to Mayo on the morning of 6/25 for management of her complex condition.

While at Mayo, Erin's status continued to deteriorate. The decision was made to deliver the baby in hopes this would help both Erin and baby. James Lloyd was born on 6/26 and is currently 23 weeks old. The NICU team has been impressed by his strength and he is currently stable in the NICU.

It was determined the cause of Erin's declining health was related to metastatic cancer. Erin's status continued to decline on the evening of 6/27 and her family was asked to be by her side. It was determined no medical treatments would reverse her current condition. Erin peacefully left this earth around 2:30 AM on 6/28 wrapped in the love of her husband, daughter, parents, and other family members who were by her side. She was welcomed into Heaven on what would have been her 19th wedding anniversary to her first husband, Dan.

Erin's family continues to pray for the health of baby James and is thankful for the endless kind words, gestures, and the many prayers they have received.