
Help Leslie Survive Cancer
Donation protected
On October 17th, my big sister, Leslie, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, a blood cancer.
This fundraiser has been created to help Leslie cover medical bills, transportation to and from chemotherapy treatment, food, and extra support needed during this trying time. With your support, we hope this new and arduous chapter will be filled with love - remembered as a time when friends, family, and kind-hearted souls helped my sister through this challenging time.
You can also donate to Leslie's Zelle or Venmo if that's easier or preferred. Feel free to get in touch with her directly about this.
Here's a little bit about Leslie
Leslie was born and lovingly raised in a low-income household by two immigrant parents. As a first-generation American, Leslie has worked hard to carve out a corner in the world where she can be of service while continuing to find a balance between her African-American and Asian-American identities. Leslie's perseverance and dedication through life allowed her to hone such an inspiring, strong, and clear voice. These qualities earned her full rides to Stanford University and Harvard University, where she is currently attending her first year of graduate school. She is an award-winning journalist and professional speechwriter, with her work being published under such publications as The New York Times, BBC, National Geographic, HTC, and more. She has touched readers' hearts worldwide, and she's only just getting started.
Leslie endured multiple blood clots, shortness of breath, cancerous masses in the neck and chest, dangerous fluid surrounding her heart, nausea, exhaustion, low appetite, and so much more. After months of symptoms, unanswered questions, and multiple doctor visits, an urgent trip to the emergency room finally gave Leslie and our family the answers we'd been waiting for. However, we couldn't have anticipated just how much these answers would change everything. This cancer diagnosis has left Leslie with more than she could have ever imagined she'd have to shoulder. The burden is immense, especially while simultaneously juggling her new graduate school courseload and writing her first memoir. There's no way to prepare for a life-altering illness like cancer. There's only what we can do moving forward - with your help.
Thank you for your time, your kindness, and your support!
Organizer and beneficiary
Joyce Nguyen-Okwu
Organizer
Cambridge, MA
Leslie Nguyen-Okwu
Beneficiary