Local Family Recognized by Leukemia Research Foundation

A family of four—the Erickson’s—from Lake in the Hills, Ill., has been chosen as members of the “Heroes Among Us,” according to the Leukemia Research Foundation. Dan, Terrie and their children, Finnleigh and Declan, were recognized for their work in shining a bright light on blood cancer awareness.

“We’re recognizing the Erickson family because of their relentless dedication to research, their never-ending support of Declan’s battle with leukemia and their determination to help others with blood cancer,” said Kevin Radelet, executive director, Leukemia Research Foundation.

Blood cancers are a group of diseases that affect the production and function of blood cells. The three main types are leukemia (found in blood and bone marrow), lymphoma (affects the body’s lymphatic system) and myeloma (impact plasma cells). Nearly 172,000 people in the U.S. are living with a blood cancer and close to 32,000 people in the Chicagoland area alone have been diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma.

The Erickson’s journey began when Declan was about nine months old, according to his mother, Terrie.

“Until his diagnosis, Declan was a typical baby,” recalled Terrie. “He was teething, crawling and eating solid foods. Then he stopped crawling. He developed bruises on his forehead and other parts of his body,” she said. “He slept a lot and getting Declan to drink his formula was a battle.”

A trip to the pediatrician’s office led to an ambulance ride and multiple blood tests before doctors finally delivered the diagnosis.

“The doctors told us that Declan had acute lymphoblastic infant leukemia and he needed a transfusion immediately or he would die. My husband and I were in shock.”

According to friends, family and their community, the Ericksons are nothing short of incredible. Rather than letting fear take over their lives, the family leaned on each other and began fighting back.

Five-year-old Finnleigh stepped into the role of big sister, offering to watch Declan or comfort him. At school, she took it upon herself to inform friends about her brother’s condition and status. When her parents decided to participate in the ABC7 Gibbons 5k Run and 3k Walk, Finnleigh wrote a heartfelt message on Facebook talking about her brother and the importance of raising money for blood cancer research. The message she posted raised more than $500 for the Leukemia Research Foundation, an incredible accomplishment for most kindergarteners.

At about the same time that Declan was diagnosed, the company Terrie worked for had laid off several employees. She was one of them. With only one family member working, the financial stress on the family took its toll. The Leukemia Research Foundation stepped in to help through its patient assistance program.

Today, Declan is in remission and is doing well while Finnleigh continues to tell anyone who listens about Declan and the importance of blood cancer research.

In their honor and in recognition of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, nine buildings and several companies in the Chicago area are lighting up the skyline in orange during the month of September.

“The color orange symbolizes hope and optimism, which reflects the significant impact the medical community has made in blood cancer research,” noted Radelet.

Headquartered in Northfield, Ill., the Leukemia Research Foundation is dedicated to conquering all blood cancers by funding research into their causes and cures and enriching the quality of life of those touched by these diseases. For 72 years, thousands of volunteers and 22 chapters have helped the Foundation raise more than $77 million to help fund the research of aspiring, eager and innovative scientist and physicians around the world, providing patient financial assistance and offering educational and emotional support for patients and their families. For more information, visit www.allbloodcancers.orgor call 847-424-0600.