Utah Mother Erika Diarte-Carr Passes Away After Inspiring Fundraiser
Erika Diarte-Carr, a 30-year-old mother from Ogden, Utah, who raised over $1 million for her children after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, passed away on October 11. Her cousin, Ángel Rivera, announced her death on Facebook, sharing that she succumbed to stage 4 small cell lung cancer, which she was diagnosed with in May 2022. Initially seeking to raise $5,000 for her funeral and to support her two young children, Jeremiah, 7, and Aaliyah, 5, Diarte-Carr's GoFundMe campaign went viral, ultimately amassing nearly $1.2 million.
Diarte-Carr's journey began with what she thought was a minor shoulder injury, leading to her shocking diagnosis. In addition to lung cancer, she was later diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome in January 2023, complicating her health further. Despite her deteriorating condition, she continued to express gratitude for the support she received from friends and strangers alike, stating, “I never expected so many people to help me. I am so grateful to everyone who has been there for me.”
In her last months, she focused on creating lasting memories for her children, planning a family trip as a farewell gesture. The funds raised will be allocated for her funeral expenses and a trust for her children, ensuring they are taken care of after her passing. Rivera described her as a strong woman who fought valiantly for her children, emphasizing the emotional toll of her journey and the love she had for her family.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with the American Cancer Society reporting that approximately 127,070 people die from lung cancer annually in the United States. Despite the grim statistics, advances in early detection and treatment have contributed to a decline in mortality rates.
