Erika Heller
Best Friend, Spokesperson for (Look Good Feel Better) LGFB

One courageous friend, Erika Heller, inspired women of all ages and backgrounds across the country to live life to the fullest. On May 28, 2009, at the age of just 31, Erika lost her four-year battle with colon cancer.

You may have seen her face grace the cover of magazines as the spokesperson for the Look Good Feel Better charitable organization. She was a spokesperson for Colon Cancer Canada; she appeared in Photo Sensitive's Cancer Project, and she was featured in our book Be...a Woman: expressions of life. But more importantly, Erika was an everyday hero who stood shoulder to shoulder with her friends and family and ignited those whose life she touched with a sense of eternal optimism, love, and appreciation for life!

Everyone who knew Erika couldn’t help but be changed by her. Diagnosed with inoperable stage four colon cancer at 27 years of age, Erika battled her illness with the optimism and energy of an Olympian going for Gold. While undergoing cancer treatment, Erika met and shortly after married her prince charming, who loved her for all that she was, and all they would face together. It felt surreal to be sitting in the same church where her fairy tale wedding took place, hearing her proud and loving father deliver the eulogy to his “little girl,” just two weeks shy of her one-year wedding anniversary.
 
As sad and unreal as her death is, Erika’s life is something to celebrate, full and enriched with beautiful moments, traveling the world, wonderful friendships, and strength of will. Erika inspired those around her to look at their own lives through a different lens—to consider what they could do to make the world a better place, regardless of where they came from or what circumstances they were dealing with. Whether it was the time she gave so generously to friends; the million simple hugs she shared with children; the genuine words of encouragement, support, and belief she expressed; or the smile she effortlessly bestowed upon every new person she met, Erika lived every moment with pure intention.

Amazing is a word that often comes up when describing a person who makes us feel incredible, uplifted, and changed. Erika will forever remain an amazing woman.

It is our hope that this campaign encourages others to look at their own life and the lives of the women around them, and to recognize and acknowledge the simple qualities that make us all amazing. If you know an amazing woman who has made a difference in your life, let her know how you feel today. Join our movement to get one million amazing women nominated. It costs nothing but means so much.

To read more about Erika's story click here:

Here comes the bride - no matter what
Erika 'Warrior Princess' loses her final battle
Erika for Nation Builder