My name is Velaphi Thipe, and I am a cancer nanomedicine researcher who has dedicated my life to developing safer, more effective treatments for cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It has always been my dream to study, work, and make a meaningful contribution to society in the United States and beyond, using science to save lives and give hope to families facing devastating diagnoses.

I was born and raised in South Africa. In 2014, my life changed forever when my father passed away from a stroke. Shortly afterward, I came to the United States to pursue my PhD, carrying both grief and determination with me. While I was still adjusting to life in a new country and an intense doctoral program, I received another heartbreaking phone call from home that my sister had been killed in a car accident, leaving behind four young children.

In that moment, I became the sole breadwinner for my family.

Since then, I have been responsible for supporting my mother, my four nieces and nephews, covering school fees, food, housing, and medical expenses. I do this willingly and with love, but it has been a heavy responsibility to carry alone.

My Research and Purpose

Despite these challenges, I completed my PhD in Chemistry and continued into advanced research in green nanotechnology and cancer nanomedicine. My work focuses on developing plant-derived, environmentally friendly nanoparticles that can target tumors more precisely, reduce side effects, and improve outcomes for patients with cancers such as prostate, pancreatic, and triple-negative breast cancer.

I believe deeply that science should serve humanity, especially underserved communities. My research is not just a job; it is my calling.

A Family Emergency That Changed Everything

In October, I received another devastating call from home that my mother had fallen, was hospitalized, and was diagnosed with congestive cardiac failure. Through the kindness of colleagues and friends, I was able to travel home to be with her during this critical time. My presence helped her heal, and she was eventually discharged but her condition requires ongoing care and support.

I returned to the United States because my work here is the only way I can continue supporting my family financially and medically.

Why I Need Help Now

My current employment contract in the U.S. is ending, and without immigration sponsorship, I may be forced to leave the country. Because of my scientific contributions, I qualify for an EB-1 (Extraordinary Ability) immigrant petition, but the legal and filing costs are overwhelming for someone supporting an entire family on a research salary.

These costs include:

1. Immigration filing fees

These are mandatory government fees required to file and process an EB-1 petition and related applications.

Subtotal: $3,730

2. Premium processing

Premium processing is critical to meet employment deadlines and avoid job loss.

Subtotal: $2,805

3. Attorney and legal preparation fees

EB-1 petitions are complex and evidence-heavy. Legal representation is essential to ensure approval and avoid costly delays or denials.

This includes:

Typical EB-1 legal fees range from $8,000–$15,000 depending on case complexity.

Subtotal: $11,000

4. Required medical exams and documentation

These are mandatory for adjustment of status and cannot be waived.

Subtotal: $2,695

Without help, I may lose the opportunity to continue my research, my job, and my ability to care for my mother and family.

Why Your Support Matters

By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping me:

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me closer to stability, security, and the ability to keep giving back through science.

From My Heart

I have never been one to ask for help, but today I am humbled and hopeful. If you are able to donate, share, or simply keep me and my family in your thoughts, please know that it means more than words can express.

Thank you for believing in me, in science, and in the power of compassion.

With deep gratitude,

Velaphi Thipe