Yulia Nemenova is a woman of profound resilience and quiet strength. Many of us know her as a dear friend: warm, thoughtful, and always present for others. Today, Yulia needs our collective presence and support as she navigates a challenging chapter.

In September 2025, Yulia was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Nearly a year earlier, she found a lump and sought care right away, but repeated imaging reassured her that it was benign. As her symptoms worsened, she continued to advocate for herself, and by the time she received an accurate diagnosis, the cancer had already metastasized.

Yulia was fortunate to enroll in a specialized clinical trial at Stanford, where she continues to receive expert care. From the beginning, her doctors explained that this treatment works differently for each person and that the disease could worsen, remain stable, or improve depending on how her body responds. The early months were grueling, marked by significant side effects and the weight of uncertainty. Fortunately, the medication is working, and together with supportive adjunct care and Yulia’s disciplined commitment to her treatment schedule, movement, and stress management, her latest results are very encouraging.

At this point, her doctors are hopeful that her cancer can be managed as a chronic condition for years. This requires ongoing medication, frequent monitoring, and regular travel to Stanford, a journey she is determined to continue.

What makes Yulia’s story truly extraordinary is her dedication to her future. Even amid treatment, she is more than halfway through a master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Phoenix. Maintaining a 3.93 GPA in a clinical program is difficult for anyone. Doing so in a second language while managing a stage 4 diagnosis is a testament to her character. Yulia has mastered English to a level of deep nuance that allows her to understand subtle psychological complexities. She has also received a scholarship in recognition of her academic achievement. She expects to graduate next year, ready to support others through their own difficult times.

The timing was particularly difficult, as Yulia’s diagnosis came just after her work contract at Modesto Junior College had ended. Because Yulia immigrated to the U.S. later in life, and because her recent positions with the animal shelter and the college did not provide coverage through California State Disability Insurance, she does not qualify for traditional disability benefits. The SSA has informed her that it will take at least 6-7 months to determine whether she qualifies for SSI. This has left her in a fragile financial position exactly when she needs stability most. Although the trial medication is covered, Yulia still faces out-of-pocket costs related to ongoing cancer care, adjunct therapies, and travel to Stanford, and the basic needs that help sustain her recovery.

We created this fundraiser to ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of Yulia’s recovery or education. Your contributions will go directly toward:

Yulia is a very special person who has worked hard to build a life of purpose. If you can contribute, any amount helps bridge the gap during this critical year. If you cannot give financially, sharing this page or sending Yulia a note of encouragement means more than words can say.

Thank you for standing with Yulia as she moves toward healing and graduation.