OGDEN, Utah — The world mourns the loss of Erika Diarte-Carr, a 30-year-old single mother from Ogden, Utah, who courageously battled stage 4 small cell lung carcinoma. Erika's journey touched countless lives as she inspired others with her resilience and determination to secure a brighter future for her children.
Erika's Battle Against Terminal Cancer
Diagnosed in May 2022, Erika faced an aggressive form of cancer known as small cell lung carcinoma, a high-grade neuroendocrine tumor. Despite receiving an additional diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome in January 2024, she remained steadfast in her resolve to spend quality time with her two children: five-year-old Ailiyah and seven-year-old Jeremiah. In September, doctors informed her that she had only three months left to live. Undeterred, Erika decided to take control of her situation by creating a GoFundMe campaign aimed at easing the financial burden on her family after her passing.
A Modest Goal Turns Into a Million-Dollar Miracle
Erika initially set out to raise $5,000 to cover her funeral expenses. However, her heartwarming story resonated deeply with people across the globe, leading to an overwhelming outpouring of support. By October 2024, the fundraiser surpassed all expectations, raising over $1 million. This remarkable achievement ensured not only her funeral costs but also provided a secure financial foundation for her young children’s futures.
“Erika embodied the spirit of love and strength,” said one supporter. “Her ability to face such adversity with grace is truly inspiring.”
The Final Chapter
Erika passed away on October 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of courage and hope. Her cousin, Angelique Rivera, shared the news via Facebook, expressing gratitude for the community’s unwavering support. “She fought a long and hard battle,” Rivera wrote. “We are so grateful for everyone who contributed to her cause.”
In her final days, Erika focused on cherishing every moment with her children, ensuring they felt loved and cared for. Her selflessness served as a testament to her devotion as a mother and her enduring impact on those fortunate enough to know her.
Remembering Erika Diarte-Carr
Erika’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of community and compassion during challenging times. Through her GoFundMe campaign, she demonstrated how collective efforts can transform individual struggles into shared triumphs. While her physical presence may be gone, her memory continues to inspire others to embrace life with bravery and kindness.
As we reflect on Erika’s journey, let us honor her memory by supporting those in need and fostering connections within our communities. Together, we can carry forward the values she cherished most—love, strength, and unity.
How You Can Help
For those wishing to contribute further, Erika’s obituary and memorial details are available through Leavitt’s Mortuary & Aultorest Memorial Park. Sending flowers or signing the guestbook offers a meaningful way to pay tribute to this extraordinary woman whose legacy will endure for generations to come.
