Meet the Models: Erika Hodnett

Erika’s Story – Good Vibes Only

Erika never felt a lump. She felt fine. But in January 2022, during her second routine mammogram, doctors found two areas of calcification. What followed was an MRI, a biopsy, and then the words no one wants to hear.

“I was diagnosed on February 8th, 2022. My first thought was, this is it. I’m dying. My whole world came crumbling down.”

Within hours of receiving the news, her house was full.

“With no hesitation, family and friends came right over and sat with me all night.”

From the very beginning, Erika and her people held onto one phrase: Good vibes only. It became their mantra through every test result, every treatment, every moment of uncertainty.

“People came from everywhere—friends I’ve had forever, people I’d just met, even people from social media. The texts, messages, emails, phone calls… my good vibe tribe got me through those first few days and months.”

Erika’s treatment was as intense as her spirit. She underwent a double mastectomy, four rounds of chemotherapy, and five full weeks of daily radiation. Then came her exchange surgery—twice. The healing process didn’t go as planned, and it became one of the hardest parts of her recovery.

“The exchange surgery was the worst part. It didn’t heal right the first time, and we had to go back in two more times. It was really frustrating.”

But through it all, she was held up—by love, by support, and by an unwavering wave of community. There was a meal train. A GoFundMe. Help with the kids. Parties. Constant check-ins. And now, even years later, it hasn’t stopped.

“I can’t say there was just one best thing someone did for me. People still send messages, hugs, and congratulations out of the blue. That means everything.”

Her advice to anyone facing a diagnosis is full of perspective and grace:

“Take a deep breath. Stay positive. You’re going to be OK. Once you know your plan from your amazing doctors, you’ll feel so much better. Lean on your people—even if it’s hard to ask.”

And to those supporting someone through cancer, Erika offers one piece of wisdom:

“Just show up. Even if they don’t ask. Just be there.”

At Runway for Recovery, we are proud to walk alongside Erika. Her story is a celebration of community, love, resilience, and joy—and a powerful reminder that even in the hardest moments, good vibes can carry us farther than we imagined.