My name is Erika. I married my husband Andrew in 2006. Shortly thereafter we began our family. First we had Simon in 2008 and then we had Rachel in 2009. While I was pregnant with Rachel I was diagnosed with breast cancer caused by a defect in the gene named BRCA1. This puts me at an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer throughout my life-time, but most notably before most breast/ovarian cancers hit the general public. Rachel & I went through chemotherapy while I was still pregnant with her. After her delivery, I did more chemo and eventually had a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. These two wonderful children will be my only natural children due to my genetic defect. However, they (with their daddy) are my life. When I'm not with them I work for the state crime lab as a forensic biologist.
I try to love life and live it to the fullest. This blog began as an on-going story of my life as a new mother. It has developed into a cathartic journey through motherhood, cancer, and re-building our lives. My Catholic faith is helping me through this journey and I have come to realize that I need help - not only from people here on earth, but also from God and the Saints in heaven. I ask for prayers, thoughts, and assistance in any way you (and God) can offer. Sometimes I'm too dense to take the offered assistance, but I am learning to take what is offered. Thank you & God bless!
Smiling already at 2 weeks
Rachel has been smiling as a response to other people since day one.
And two shall become one...
In 2006, Andrew & I became one before God and family! Shortly thereafter we became 3 with the birth of Simon in 2008... Then 4 with the addition of Rachel in 2009!