Check Out Ronniee-Marie Ruggiero’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ronniee-Marie Ruggiero

Hi Ronniee-Marie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In July 2017, our lives were forever changed. We received that dreadful call—the one every person fears—the call that turned our world upside down. My husband, Erik Adrid, had been diagnosed with undifferentiated sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. I was left with so many questions, and a sinking feeling in my heart. At the time, our children, Luke and Madison, were just 11 and 9 years old. They didn’t understand the full weight of what was happening, but they could see it in our eyes: the uncertainty, the fear.

Erik and I were lifelong residents of San Pedro, a close-knit community where we had built our lives together. The support we received from our neighbors and friends during those challenging years was a testament to the strength of our hometown and the relationships we cherished.

From that moment on, everything was about the fight. It wasn’t just Erik who was battling the disease; we were all in it together. The treatments came fast and relentless: radiation, chemotherapy, surgeries, and clinical trials. I watched Erik endure each one with a strength that I admired so deeply, but no matter how hard we fought, the cancer was stronger. It didn’t spare us the pain, and it didn’t spare Erik the time he deserved. All we got in return were long hours in hospital rooms, endless medical appointments, and a constant revolving door of doctors and nurses. The physical pain and emotional toll became unbearable at times.

By December 2019, after Erik had dealt with an intense bout of shingles, we knew we had to make a choice. It became clear that no more treatments were going to cure him, and our time together was running out. Instead of focusing on more hospital visits, we decided to prioritize making memories with our children. We wanted the time we had left to be filled with love, laughter, and joy. With the support of a compassionate hospice team, Erik and I embraced the reality of what was ahead, but we also focused on cherishing every moment with Luke and Madison.

It was in those moments that I realized just how precious time truly is, and I wanted to honor Erik’s fight and memory in a way that could help others. In July 2020, a month that holds deep significance as both Erik’s birthday month and Sarcoma Awareness Month, I founded Erik’s Way to carry on his legacy of strength, love, and resilience. The mission of Erik’s Way is to support individuals and families across the nation who are facing similar battles with cancer. Through a personalized approach, we offer tailored resources, programs, and emotional support designed to meet the unique needs of each family.

Our work is built on a community-centered foundation, where families facing cancer can find a sense of connection, comfort, and shared strength. We provide programs that help families make the most of their time together, while also offering emotional support to help navigate the overwhelming challenges that come with serious illness. Erik’s Way is not just about remembering Erik, it’s about creating a lasting impact in his honor by supporting families who are on their own journeys. Through personalized care and a strong sense of community, we help make sure that no one has to go through this fight alone.

Erik’s courage and love for our children continue to inspire me every day, and through Erik’s Way, his story lives on—helping others across the country who are facing the same battles we once did.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Founding Erik’s Way has come with its share of significant challenges. As a single, full-time working mom, I knew I had to honor Erik’s memory and support others, but the journey hasn’t been easy. Sharing our story, signing up families, and securing committed funding has proven difficult, and there have been many long days and sleepless nights filled with uncertainty. Despite these obstacles, we’ve continued to endure and grow. In July 2023, we officially received our nonprofit status, marking a major milestone in our journey. The mission of Erik’s Way remains strong, and every step forward is a testament to Erik’s legacy and the love that fuels our work.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Professionally, I work full-time for Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), where I support schools in implementing the AVID Elective. This role allows me to help students develop the skills necessary for success in higher education and beyond, which is something I’m deeply passionate about as an educator. I’ve always believed in the power of literacy, community, and education, and these values continue to shape my work with AVID.

Balancing this role with running Erik’s Way has been a challenge, but it’s also a natural extension of my commitment to community and service. In addition to my work, I’ve raised our two children, Luke and Madison, and supported them in all their athletic endeavors—just like Erik did. As a family, we always emphasized the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and giving back to others.

Erik’s Way ties all of these values together: literacy, community service, and supporting small businesses. Through the foundation, we’re able to empower families facing cancer with the resources they need while fostering a strong sense of community. We believe in the power of education and connection, whether it’s helping children navigate a difficult diagnosis or supporting local businesses through our initiatives. Just as I’ve dedicated my professional life to helping students succeed, I’m equally committed to ensuring that Erik’s Way creates meaningful impact for families across the country.

What were you like growing up?
I grew up as the oldest of four children, and I truly embody the personality traits often associated with being the firstborn. From a young age, I naturally took on the role of caretaker, always looking out for my siblings and taking responsibility for things around me. As a result, I developed a strong sense of responsibility, a desire to be a leader, and a perfectionistic drive to do things well. Whether it was helping out at home or excelling in school, I always strived to be someone others could depend on.

Growing up in San Pedro, I was fortunate to be surrounded by the natural beauty of the water. Summers were spent swimming in the pool, out on the boat, or enjoying the beach, which fostered my deep love for the ocean. It was this connection to the water that led me to attend San Pedro High School’s Marine Biology Magnet, where I could explore my passion for the environment and marine life.

In addition to my love for nature, I’ve always had a strong passion for reading and writing. By junior high, I discovered the world of books and writing, which became a lifelong love. Literature has always been a way for me to express myself, learn about the world, and dive into new perspectives. This passion for reading not only shaped who I am but also reinforced my belief in the power of literacy and education, which continues to guide me in my professional and personal life today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.eriksway.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikswaysb
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EriksWaySouthBay
• Other: erikswaynp@gmail.com