Erin was a spunky, sassy, determined and stubborn girl. She was full of life and energy, loved to have fun, easily laughed at herself, and always had a great sense of humor. In January 2012, Erin at age 21, was diagnosed with DIPG. Erin had a long fight ahead of her with all statistics being against her. Medications altered Erin’s appearance and the tumor took away her ability to control her balance and movements. Yet through it all, Erin did not lose herself. The laughter never stopped. Erin’s spunky, Fearless attitude gave her a positive outlook on life and because of this, “Fearless” became Erin’s motto. 

Erin did not allow her diagnosis to define her. Through her journey she continued to run and workout as much as she could. She even returned to Miami University and in December 2012 she completed the fall semester but fell 6 credit hours short of her bachelor’s degree. 

Visitors came to our home, some with heavy hearts, not knowing what to expect or what to say. With Erin’s smile, lighthearted joking, and eagerness to be caught up on the latest gossip, visitors were quickly put to ease. She did not want to be the center of attention; she just wanted things to be as normal as possible. 

Medically, things continued to worsen daily for Erin. On March 2nd 2013, Kim, Erin’s sister who was away at college, had a soccer game at UC. Erin insisted on going to support her sister. Erin was not going to take “no” for an answer. Commitment and dedication were bread into Erin and there was no excuse to miss a game. It took all of Erin’s strength that day to go to the game. Per Erin’s own wishes, she was placed in the hospital on March 7th, 2013. Erin told us that she was not going to “move on” until after Kim’s next soccer match. Erin was not going to be the blame for Kim missing a game. Kim was home from school at this point and was not going to be at the game. Saturday's game was postponed to Sunday due to the weather. On Sunday Erin lost all ability to communicate, but when Kim told her that the game was over, Erin let out a puff of air. On Monday, March 11th, 2013 our feisty girl took her last breath.

The battle may have been lost, but so much was gained. Erin taught us to sing like no one was listening, as she often did with her windows down and radio up. Dance like no one is watching, as she did since she was an infant. To love like your heart has never been broken. Not to take yourself too seriously and to find humor in the worst situations. 

In Memory of: Erin Michelle Golden August 17, 1990 – March 11th 2013 
“FEARLESS” – Living in spite of the things that scare you the most. 
Always “Fighting for Golden”.

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