Hi everyone,

My name is Galina, and I'm reaching out with a heavy but hopeful heart to ask for your support for someone incredibly dear to me, Irena, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

This news has turned our world upside down. Irena is a mother, sister, daughter, friend, co-worker known for her compassion, strength, smile kindness and selflessness. She’s always been the first to show up for others, whether it was volunteering in the community, being the rock for her family, or just offering a warm hug when someone needed it.

Irena has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone chemotherapy treatment. She will soon undergo radiation treatment and will continue taking various kinds of oral medications. The physical, emotional, and financial toll is immense. While she’s bravely facing this fight, the cost of treatment, medications, travel to specialists, time off work, and everyday expenses is more than one person can bear alone. Despite undergoing treatment, Irena continues to work as a kitchen staff at PS 98 in Douglaston, New York. Irena, a single mother, has no one to rely on to raise her two teenage boys. She has been living paycheck to paycheck and faces severe financial challenges. Irena is someone who would not ask for anything despite her difficult circumstances.

Now it's our turn to show up for her. We’re raising to help cover the mounting medical bills and living costs so Irena can focus on healing. Every donation, no matter how small, helps lift a weight off her shoulders. Even if you can’t give, sharing this campaign with your network means the world.

If you've ever been touched by Irena’s kindness, laughter, or strength, now’s the time to give that love back.

We’ll keep you updated every step of the way. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, prayers, and support.

With gratitude,

Galina Gonera & The PS 98 family