Erika Hannigan, BSN, RN, CN II

There have just been times during my sister’s journey to cancer survivor that have been such a blur, that seem surreal. I don't know how she/we got so lucky having my sister not only become a survivor but experiencing the amazing care from Erika Hannigan. Erika is a beacon of love and light. You can't help but smile and feel hope when talking to her or simply being in her presence. Every day for 8 straight weeks, my sister would look to Erika for her smile, laughter, warmth, and compassion. She would immediately walk in after changing into her gown before radiation and ask, "Where's Erika? Is Erika here today?" There were even times that she asked Erika where Erika was because Erika could look very different depending on how she wore her hair that day! Erika is kind, bright, and wonderful, and the type of nurse that you thank the heavens that you got, hope that everyone is blessed to have a nurse like her, and that you pray that the challenge of how hard it is to work in radiation oncology doesn't harden her or dim her light. Erika made those 8 weeks tolerable for my sister. There were many dark days for her leading up to her radiation and during her radiation therapy. Erika was a consistent, caring cheerleader, voice of hope, smile, or a hug. I could never fully express my gratitude to Erika for being there for my sister and simply for being her. Thanks to Erika's support, my sister was here to not only celebrate her birthday, but she and her fiancé welcomed a son. I'll be forever grateful for Erika's professionalism, kindness, compassion, and support during my sister’s journey! Thank you, Erika! You are extraordinary!