who is erica?

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At 12 years old, Erica was just like any other girl until her life took a sudden turn during a gymnastics practice. She heard a pop, and in the days that followed, doctors discovered that her femur had broken due to a tumor. 

The diagnosis: Osteosarcoma,  bone cancer.

Erica endured several rounds of chemotherapy, a leg amputation, and numerous trials before finally reaching remission. 

Through it all, she remained resilient and determined to make a difference.

Erica's Wish was born from her dream to bring comfort to children battling cancer and to raise awareness about this devastating disease.

Coach Mari Ellery quickly recognized Erica's potential and encouraged her to get in a boat and take to the water. 

For the first time, Erica felt like she was on equal footing with other athletes, and this newfound sense of belonging sparked a passion that would soon define her journey. Paralympic training had begun!

Erica embarked on her Paralympic journey in 2014, training for the Rio Paralympics. Along the way, she faced numerous challenges, but her determination and strength never wavered. 

Erica continues to push forward and competed on the world stage once again in Paris 2024.