Erica...

I never thought my life would be so surrounded and consumed by the young, impressionable, lives of children. Growing up I always loved and enjoyed working with children, but I never thought they would teach me some of life's greatest lessons.

A few years ago I met a wonderful little girl named Erica. She was quiet, with big blue eyes and blond, blond hair. I immediately noticed that she had a sweet spirit and was drawn to her. Initially, she didn't say much to me, rarely made eye contact, and avoided my "teacherly" touches-pats on the back for encouragement and so forth; but after she warmed up a bit, we began a beautiful and unique friendship.  Erica would often catch me off guard with her impeccable memory and ability to persevere despite any challenges that would come her way. And she faced major challenges.  Erica had been diagnosed with brain cancer very early in her life. By the time I met her, she had endured a very intense round of chemotherapy and her medical status was stable.

As time progressed I built a strong relationship with she and her family. I watched Erica's academic and communication skills blossom. She fascinated me; she never complained, displayed such a thoughtfulness and compassion to others and she was a fighter. I can't even begin to imagine the amount of courage it takes for anyone to endure the looming, dark presence of cancer. I watched Erica and her family struggle through highs and lows with such grace...a grace that I couldn't quite understand, but I marveled at it. I also marveled at Erica's courage and strength as she pressed forward and beat so many odds that were stacked against her.

My time with Erica taught me that falling down means getting back up; you never go out without a fight; you do your absolute best no matter what; and you take what life and God have blessed you with and exhaust all of the possibilities that come with those blessings. Quite simply Erica taught me the great lessons of faith and courage.

As life gifts you with joys it also allows you to experience heartbreak. On June 10th, 2011 Erica lost her battle with cancer. Her sweet face, gentle voice, infectious smile and strong character will forever be etched in my heart and mind. Her family, the epitome of love, grace and strength, will forever have my prayers and love. I can't begin to imagine the grief they are experiencing. I am eternally grateful for the honor of having known Erica, how amazingly blessed heaven is to have her.

Please make donations to St. Jude for their continued research.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital501 St Jude PlaceMemphis, TN 38105Phone: 1-800-822-6344Or Email: donors@stjude.org