Help LGBT Nurse Start New Life in USA

Don Evangelista is a 22-year-old butch lesbian nursing student from the Philippines. He’s kind, funny, smart, and one of the most hardworking people I’ve ever known. He’s also my best friend.

Don has lived alone since he was 16. His parents sent him away from their current country of residence to attend college in the Philippines for financial reasons, leaving him to pursue rigorous coursework thousands of miles away from his mother, father, and siblings. As if this wasn’t lonely enough, the COVID-19 pandemic isolated him even further.

These circumstances have exacerbated his depression, anxiety, and burnout. Despite wanting to improve his mental health, Don functionally has no recourse for these issues — in the Philippines, he does not have access to therapy, prescription medication, or dedicated peer support.

However, Don has taken all of this in stride and graduated in summer 2023. He wants to pursue his nursing career in the United States, where he can have a fresh start and pursue the mental health care he’s needed for years. This move would also allow the two of us to finally enjoy our years-long friendship in person.

We appreciate anything you can give, whether that be a donation or a link share. Money raised by this fundraiser will go toward NCLEX testing, visa, and flight costs. Thank you so much!