Friends,
I am writing on behalf of an amazingly resilient and ambitious student. Paola Ruiz is a recent graduate of MIT. I have had the pleasure of being her mentor and stand in mother figure. Paola's mom passed from breast cancer right before she left for college.  Since then her dad has fallen ill with stage 4 throat cancer.

Paola has been forced to be the sole caregiver for her family of four. In essence, she has become a mom to her younger siblings. She is responsible for  the mortgage, utility bills, school supplies, clothing and anything else her family may need. 

This has taken a huge toll on her. I must say, I am in awe that she is handling things so well. She is extremely overwhelmed and I want to help. 

Please join me in helping Paola navigate this very challenging time and remind her that life will meet you where you are... She is feeling very alone right now.  Hope is contagious!