On October 3, 2021, Erin Wood lost her 15-year battle with colorectal cancer. She was a beacon of hope within our community, a fearless advocate for our patients, and a much beloved co-worker.
Erin joined Duke in the 1998; working for MCIS (now DHTS) Department of Medicine and Duke Cancer Institute in Information Systems, though her impact extended into many other Duke departments. She completed her career as Sr. IT Analyst and a valued member of the Duke Cancer Institute’s Information Systems team.
Outside of her desk job, Erin volunteered and fundraised actively in the Duke community; helping provide support and funds for our patients and research, leading patient support groups, and advocating for increased research funding at the federal level. In interviews with local media, she shared her personal cancer journey and raised awareness about the importance of colorectal cancer screening. She was also interviewed for a marathon ESPN/V Foundation for Cancer Research fundraiser.
Erin was a fixture at the annual DCI-led Crush Colorectal Cancer Walk & 5K Run with her fundraising team “Tush Tush.” When interviewed in 2016 about why she supported the Crush Colorectal Cancer Walk & 5K Run, she said, “Getting involved is empowering. I’m not only helping myself, I’m also helping the tens of thousands of others who are and will battle this disease.” That was Erin; constantly looking out for others.
In recognition of her many patient advocacy efforts, Erin received the 2020 Duke Presidential Award, the highest honor given by Duke University to faculty and staff members. The virtual ceremony was held just this past spring — on April 14, 2021.
Wrote DCI Information Systems IT manager Geoff Chenger in his nomination letter, “Erin constantly shows an incredibly positive attitude and spirit, a dedication to Duke’s patients and staff, and has an intricate understanding of what the staff and patients need from the unique perspective she readily provides. Not only have I never heard her complain about any of this, she stays so positive that it is an inspiration to all of us. Her spirit reminds all of us why we are really coming to work today.”
In recognition of her many patient advocacy efforts, Erin received the 2020 Duke Presidential Award, the highest honor given by Duke University to faculty and staff members. The virtual ceremony was held just this past spring — on April 14, 2021.
Wrote DCI Information Systems IT manager Geoff Chenger in his nomination letter, “Erin constantly shows an incredibly positive attitude and spirit, a dedication to Duke’s patients and staff, and has an intricate understanding of what the staff and patients need from the unique perspective she readily provides. Not only have I never heard her complain about any of this, she stays so positive that it is an inspiration to all of us. Her spirit reminds all of us why we are really coming to work today.”
A memorial service will be held in Erin’s honor on Saturday, October 16, at St. Matthew Catholic Church. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Erin’s life and her many contributions to DCI and the broader colorectal cancer community. More information can be found here: https://www.clementsfuneralservice.com/obituaries/Erin-Duffy-Wood?obId=22577287
For those who want to share their memories of Erin, you can do so via the Qualtrics survey here. The photos and remembrances will be shared with Erin’s family. (The survey will close on Friday, October 29)
“Cancer didn’t beat Erin, it could only fight her to a draw.” — Michael Leonard, teammate, DCI IS
