Help Us Build Erica’s Support Team: ----- Since March 2026, Erica’s life has changed dramatically. What began with a serious concussion and traumatic brain injury in March developed into months of disabling post-traumatic migraine and neurological symptoms. Then, in July, while being treated for the migraine, Erica developed a severe reaction to the medication lamotrigine. That reaction was ultimately diagnosed as **DRESS (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms)** — a rare and potentially life-threatening systemic drug reaction. What initially looked like a severe allergic reaction has turned into a prolonged illness involving multiple organ systems, recurrent flares, severe swelling and edema, hospitalizations, and an ongoing need for intensive medical treatment and specialist care. Unfortunately, this isn't over. Erica is still very sick and is currently undergoing treatment with powerful immunosuppressive medications while multiple specialists work to determine how best to control the disease and prevent further complications. She is traveling to Denver for specialized appointments and needs ongoing medical coordination and monitoring. At the same time, she has been unable to work since May because of the combined effects of the TBI and DRESS. She receives SSDI, but it covers only a portion of her monthly expenses. She is currently drawing approximately $4,000 each month from her retirement savings just to keep going, and it is becoming clear that she may not be able to return to work for at least another six months — and possibly much longer. This is where we need help. # Erica needs a community around her. This page is **not just a fundraiser**. It is a way for friends, family and loved ones to see what is happening, stay informed without Erica having to repeat the story over and over, and help in whatever way they are able. Some needs are financial. Others are practical. People can help by: * driving Erica to medical appointments in Denver * accompanying her to difficult appointments * helping coordinate appointments, records, phone calls and medical logistics * bringing or arranging meals and groceries * helping with errands and household tasks * helping with her dog- Hendrix * providing grocery or other needed gift cards * contributing toward medical and living expenses * spending time with Erica when she is too sick to be alone * helping with larger practical needs as they arise, including eventually helping her move when her house sells There may also be days when the most valuable thing someone can offer is simply: **“I can take this task off your plate.”** Erica has always tried to handle things herself and keep moving forward despite a complicated medical history. Right now, however, the amount of illness, treatment, travel, financial pressure and day-to-day logistics has become more than one person — or even a small handful of people — can reasonably carry. Randy has been trying to support Erica while also dealing with an extraordinarily difficult period in his own work and life. Catherine and other friends have been helping tremendously as well, but they are reaching their limits too. **This is why we are building a larger circle of support now.** If you know Erica, love her, have followed her journey, or simply want to help someone through an incredibly difficult season, this is the place to find out what is needed. You don't have to do everything. You don't have to know exactly what to say. You don't have to be able to give money. **There are many ways to help, and every form of support matters.** This page will also be used to share major updates so that everyone can stay connected to Erica's journey without requiring her to individually update dozens of people while she is trying to recover. Thank you for being part of her community.
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