Erin is a pre-veterinary student with a deep passion for veterinary medicine and a love for animals, nature, art, and reading. She’s driven by a desire to explore new experiences, whether that’s through traveling or taking on new challenges.

When she was 2 years old, Erin had an uncontrollable nosebleed in the middle of a grocery store, which led to a visit to the emergency room. The doctors assured her family it wasn’t serious, but a few days later, she developed flu-like symptoms. Several doctors said it was a common virus, and it wasn’t until she was admitted to the ER with a dangerously high fever that Erin received her cancer diagnosis: Stage IV neuroblastoma.

Treatment was tough. Erin underwent many rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries (one of which was 13 hours long), and two autologous stem cell transplants. Some of the treatment caused acute liver failure, and Erin only recovered when she was put on a drug trial from Italy. While Erin has reached remission, she is still battling the lingering side effects from treatment: ovarian failure and high frequency hearing loss. “I have a very long medical history that I can’t fully describe,” Erin said.

Despite all she’s been through, Erin wants others who may have recently received a cancer diagnosis to know that while the journey ahead may feel overwhelming, they are stronger than they think. “There will be difficult days, but there will also be moments of hope, resilience, and even joy. Lean on the people who support you, allow yourself grace on the hard days, and celebrate every small victory. Most importantly, your diagnosis does not define you.”

Today, Erin aspires to become a veterinary oncologist. “My own experience with cancer has given me a deeper understanding of the physical and emotional challenges my patients will face during treatment,” she said. “This perspective allows me to approach my work with a heightened sense of compassion, ensuring that I not only treat the disease but also support the overall well-being of the animals in my care. because treating animals requires both medical expertise and deep empathy. Since our patients can’t tell us how they feel, veterinary medicine demands a unique combination of intuition and knowledge.” She also aims to conduct research to find better treatments for cancer in the future!

“Although this story is about me, I can truly say that being a cancer survivor has introduced me to some of my greatest heroes,” Erin shared. “The friends I’ve made, and tragically lost, during my time in the hospital embody the true spirit of courage and resilience. I honor them whenever I can, as their strength and determination continue to inspire me every day.”

Ever since, Erin has turned that inspiration into action. In 2023, she proposed celebrating Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to the Directors of Athletics for Suffolk County in New York, in which more than 35 schools participated by wearing gold shoelaces in September. They raised over $15,000. She has also spoken of her experience with cancer at many events, inspiring others to take action with her own story.

To Erin, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation represents hope, resilience, and the power of a community coming together for something bigger than themselves. It’s a reminder that even the smallest actions, like a lemonade stand, can spark real change in the fight against childhood cancer. “As someone who has experienced cancer firsthand, I know how much hope means during that journey,” said Erin. “This foundation not only funds critical research that brings us closer to a cure but also provides support to families who need it most. It’s a symbol of strength, reminding us that no one fights alone.”

Information provided by Erin E.
Updated April 2025