Hopkins 4K for Cancer

Erin Calkins

Trip Year: 2006
School: JHU
Hometown: Canandaigua, NY
Email: erinpcalkins@gmail.com

Growing up, I was very close to a couple that acted as pseudo grandparents to me. We spent a lot of time with Carl and Marie and I always looked forward to celebrating holidays and my accomplishments with them. Before I was a teenager, Carl was diagnosed with liver cancer and passed away. Carl had a way of making everyone smile, even while enduring cancer treatment--he was everyone's favorite Santa Claus at Christmas time and spread that same cheer all year long. Just as Carl did for me, I hope to share strength and love with others as we travel to San Francisco this summer.

Since joining 4K, the organization has taken on a greater meaning for me. My aunt was recently diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Hearing about what she is going through while continuing to be a constant support to my five- and seven-year-old cousins amazes me. She has so much courage that shines through when I ask her to explain her cancer and treatment to me. While she is fighting her own battle this summer, I am grateful that I, too, will be fighting the same disease in the best way that I can.

Age: 22
Major: Public Health