Erik Elken Berwyn, PA, Conestoga/Atlantis Rugby Player Allegedly Died from Cancer, GoFundMe
Erik Elken Berwyn PA – Former Conestoga/Atlantis Rugby Player Battles Rare Sarcoma, Family Launches GoFundMe
Berwyn, Pennsylvania is rallying behind one of its own this week as news spreads about Erik Elken, a former Conestoga and Atlantis rugby standout, who has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Known affectionately as “Big E” since his youth, Erik has always stood out not only for his size and skill on the rugby field but also for his generosity, positivity, and quiet leadership that inspired teammates, classmates, and friends alike.
Erik, now a student-athlete at the University of South Carolina, discovered in late January that what was initially suspected to be a hip labrum injury was actually a tumor in his femur and surrounding tissue. Following extensive testing, including MRIs, biopsies, and DNA analysis, Erik received a stage 4 NUT sarcoma diagnosis, a rare cancer so uncommon that only specialized hospitals can provide an accurate identification. Treatment options are complicated, requiring coordination among multiple institutions including Cooper University Hospital in Camden, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, and potentially the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston for inclusion in clinical trials.
Friends, family, and rugby community members have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Erik and his family during this difficult journey. His mother, Leslie Elken, faces financial pressures despite insurance coverage, including adapting their home for crutch mobility, and implementing a medically recommended ketogenic anti-cancer diet to support Erik’s treatment plan. Donations will directly assist with these essential costs and ensure Erik receives the best possible care.
Erik’s story has touched countless lives. From his early days at Conestoga, through his collegiate rugby career, he’s earned respect for his dedication, teamwork, and resilience. His positive outlook, deep faith, and unwavering acceptance of life’s challenges have been a source of inspiration for everyone around him. Friends describe him as having a spirit as large as his physical presence, someone who motivates others quietly yet powerfully, like a true captain in every sense.
The rugby analogy resonates deeply with Erik’s community: like a tightly bound scrum, friends and supporters are coming together to push against cancer, providing both emotional and financial strength to his family. Community members, alumni, and rugby enthusiasts are urged to contribute, pray, and share updates to create a strong support network around Erik, reflecting the same dedication and teamwork he has always shown on the field.
Organized by Bridget Tomasicchio in Berwyn, PA, the campaign emphasizes both spiritual and practical support, underlining the importance of building a “scrum” around Erik, ensuring he has a fighting chance against this aggressive disease. Through donations, prayers, and awareness, the goal is not only to provide immediate assistance for treatment and daily needs but to show Erik and his family that they are not alone in this fight.
Erik Elken’s courage, resilience, and community spirit make him a beacon of hope, proving that even in the face of a devastating and rare diagnosis, a network of love and determination can make an extraordinary difference. Anyone wishing to support Erik can contribute via the official GoFundMe link: Big Love for Big E.