Support Kei, a Father Fighting Illness After Losing His Wife

Hi everyone,

I'm reaching out today on behalf of my dear friends, the Okazaki family (For privacy reasons, I’ve chosen not to share the real names or personal photos of the family in this fundraiser. I’m using “the Okazaki family” as a placeholder name out of respect for their anonymity. Thank you for understanding and for respecting their privacy during this difficult time). They have been through unimaginable hardships over the past few years, and I felt compelled to do something—anything—to help. They don’t know I’m organizing this fundraiser yet, but sometimes, the people who give the most are the ones least likely to ask for help themselves.

I’ve known Kei and Lina Okazaki since 2015, when they moved just two doors down from me in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn. Originally from Japan, they had made a life for themselves in the U.S.—Lina having moved to Westchester County, NY as a child, and Kei coming to the U.S. in high school. They met in New York City, married, and eventually moved to Los Angeles so Lina could pursue her acting career. After some years, they returned to NYC and, in 2019, welcomed their son, Rei, into the world—a child they had long hoped and prayed for.

In 2022, they made the bold decision to move to Japan, to reconnect with their culture and give Rei a deeper sense of his roots. They settled in the peaceful countryside of Shizuoka, near Kei’s hometown and the beautiful Mount Fuji. When I reunited them right after their move, they were full of joy, excited about their new chapter in Japan.

But only six months later, their world was turned upside down. Lina was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer. After a courageous two-year battle, she passed away in 2024. Heartbreakingly, her wake was held on what should have been Rei’s first day of elementary school. He was only six.

If that loss weren’t devastating enough, Kei’s father also passed away the same year. Kei, now a single father, continued doing everything he could—working remotely for U.S.-based companies, taking care of Rei, managing household responsibilities, and visiting his elderly mother who lives alone. He carried it all with quiet strength.

But just months ago, Kei began feeling unwell. After seeing a doctor, he was diagnosed with a rare bone marrow disorder. He now requires regular blood transfusions, medications, and vitamin injections just to live day-to-day. He hasn’t even told his mother or siblings about his diagnosis—protecting them from worry, as he always does.

Despite his resilience, the emotional and financial toll is immense. Medical costs are mounting, and Kei still has to provide a stable home and upbringing for young Rei. That’s why I’m asking for your support.

Funds raised will go toward:

• Ongoing medical expenses

• Childcare and school-related costs for Rei

• Rent and living costs during this time of crisis

I’ve known Kei not just as a neighbor, but as a close friend and former colleague. He welcomed me into the photo studio where he worked, helped our neighborhood in small and big ways, and looked after others with quiet generosity. Whether it was saving street parking spots, sharing home-cooked meals & groceries, or checking on elderly neighbors, Kei was always there for others. Now, it’s our turn to be there for him.

If you’re able, please consider donating—no amount is too small. And if you can’t donate, sharing this campaign would also mean the world. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Image credit: Luné Takagi Bastien (My 17 years old daughter designed for this campaign)

Hidemi