Funeral expenses for Nova Otieno

We are asking for help for Otieno/Odago family during this tragic time. Their amazing daughter, Nova suddenly developed a blood clot leading to pulmonary embolism a few weeks after graduating from University of Buffalo. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and the entire Oneonta community. Nova will be laid to rest in her hometown in Kenya. We are asking for help to support the family to offset some of the expenses for transporting her body to her final resting place.  

Her story is best told by her college roommates,

“On May 31st, sadly the life of the bright star we knew as Nova Otieno had unexpectedly been cut short. In a way that was just as unforgettable as her name, Nova was a charismatic energy that lit up every room she was in and made a positive impact on every person she’d ever met. The majority of her graduating class had met Nova, as she was the SNMA (Student National Medical Association) liaison for MAPS (Minority Association of Pre-medical. Students), a club for minorities in pre-sciences, an active member, treasurer, and historian for Black Student Union on her college campus. Not only that, she was a friend. When I call her a friend, I don't say that lightly. Almost everyone has friends, but to have a friend like Nova was extraordinary. She was selfless, caring, patient, a great listener, loyal and so much more. Nova was an amazing and genuine person. There isn’t anyone who you can mention her name to and they wouldn’t have something positive to say about her.

Being a people person was just the tip of the iceberg for her. From freshman year, she was determined to go to med school and become a surgeon. Although sharing the same woes as every student in biological sciences, not only did Nova get it done, she finished it and graduated cum laude. When we talk about being a good student, Nova was exceptional. She was disciplined, ambitious, organized, and set clear goals for herself. During her last semester at UB, she was a TA for a Comparative Primate Lab, and was traveling home to Oneonta on the weekends to work 14 hour shifts at AO Fox hospital.

Despite being so busy, or rather because of it, Nova’s personality was genuine and made one think about what life would be like if you had an ounce of her conviction. She was an example for everyone to say the least. If only she knew the impact she had on those around her. Nova was a bright star in everyone’s life, and we are all deeply saddened to see her go. Till we meet again. Rest In Peace Nova”