Greetings loved ones and friends. I’m sorry to say that I am no longer Earthside. In my short time here, I was able to do some pretty awesome shit, like, global jet-hopping to— Japan, Thailand, Ecuador (mi segundo hogar), Peru, a bunch of places in the US, and of course Canad…eh?—teaching things to cool people, driving around in my Subaru or riding around in my Wheelie Wagon (wheelchair van) to up-north-lands— trying to get in touch with my outdoorsy side— and finally, being that funny and kind friend to everyone I met.
I experienced life as a young, professional, single lady, with the absolute best job of teaching ESL to adult immigrants and refugees from all over the world; teenagers to grandparents. And ALSO as a disabled lady that had a lot of brain issues. Such a profound life change that was, not to mention humbling, awakening, and an unexpected adventure! Thank you to the disabled community I found on social media (and to those that found me), from across the globe, and in real life. I’m proud to say that my brain will live on in a neuroscience research lab for the NIH, hopefully shedding some light on all the rare neurological diseases I lived with, or as I called them: my invisible BFF.
I am survived by mom Beth and dad Steve (my original roomies), my brother Danny (Taylor), sister Ali Peña (Carlos), and nephews Carlitos and Camilo. I am bursting with gratitude for my life and all the people in it. Thanks for the wild ride y’all!
By the way, humans are complex, right? For example, in addition to being fat and disabled, I identified as Queer (umbrella term) AND Ace (not sexually attracted to anyone) and Panromantic (attracted to characteristics, not gender. There are many flowers, I don’t just prefer one kind)…Google it to learn more. If you’re wondering why you’re just learning this now, it’s because my life was complicated enough learning to navigate my invisible and dynamic disability, especially when it progressed. I’m just grateful to be a part of the 2SLBGTQIA+ community after I came out to immediate family and close friends at 37, and even now just in spirit.
That’s it; I love you all. Be kind, and stay woke.
Erin
Erin died from her complex rare brain stem disease(s) at home on 4-21-2025. She was supported by family, friends and the wonderful folks at Grace Hospice. In lieu of flowers, Memorials preferred to: