Our Stories

Estefany Londono, a Complex Specimen Processor in Florida, was just 25 years old when her life changed forever. She had to call out of work one day because she felt “too sick to move”. When a day out of work stretched to an entire week, she went to the doctor and learned her white blood cell count was extremely elevated – after further testing, she was diagnosed with leukemia.

Estefany had to stay in the hospital for five weeks, undergoing chemo, a bone marrow donation, and other treatments. She says the worst part was the anxiety – not knowing what to do or when she would be able to return to work. “Thankfully, my coworkers were all very nice. They called me the whole time,” she said.

One coworker reminded Estefany about the Hope Fund, so she decided to apply. When she learned she would be receiving assistance, Estefany said “I was so happy. It was one less thing to worry about while I was in the hospital. Thankfully, it came right before I had to pay rent. I was able to breathe more easily.”

She is still undergoing treatment, but doing much better. Reflecting on her experience with the Hope Fund, Estefany said, “I want my colleagues to know they shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. I am very, very grateful the Hope Fund was there to help me in my time of need.”