B+ Hero Vina, the Valedictorian
B+ Hero Vina
“Dear Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation,
My name is Javin, though many know me as Vina. I am eighteen years of age and like Andrew, I was diagnosed with AML.
When I first received my diagnosis, I was at peace, weird to say but as a minor I didn’t know the complexities of what would lie ahead. After a few months after my diagnosis thats when it really hit me, I found myself worrying about bills and the financial strain on me and my family, instinctively feeling the weight of responsibilities far beyond my years. Despite being told not to worry, I felt I had no choice but to stay strong, just like Andrew did.
Your assistance, particularly with mortgage and car payments, has been more than a blessing, believe me. In moments when I felt that my heart couldn’t bear any more stress, your support made it easier, It lifted me up and reminded me that I was not alone. The relief and peace of mind you provided allowed not only me but my family to focus on what was more important and that is my health and healing.
Andrew's story and the B+ message have been a source of inspiration for me. That boy was truly a beacon of light. His courage and positivity, even in the face of unimaginable challenges, resonate with me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I think of Andrew and remind myself to B+ and keep fighting.
Without your foundation's help, I don’t know how we would have navigated this journey. Your kindness and generosity have touched our lives in ways words cannot fully express.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you do. Your dedication to helping families like mine, supporting childhood cancer research, advocating for more funding, and spreading the B+ message is truly one in a million. Andrew's legacy lives on through the countless lives you touch and the hope you provide. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Below I have attached a few photographs of myself and my “I am a B+ hero, about me sheet” I am also a writer and I would like to share an essay I wrote about my diagnosis, a valedictorian speech I wrote while in the hospital seeing that I couldn’t make it to my high school’s graduation (my medical theme threw me a hospital graduation on my bmt unit) and a poem I wrote for my medical team.
With heartfelt gratitude and admiration,
2024 NYC B+ Marathon Team
This year, I have the honor of being one of the 11 members of the B+ Running Team entered in the NYC Marathon. I’ve never run a marathon, but I’m excited about tackling such a tremendous physical challenge. Before training started, I definitely would not have said that I was a runner. Training in the humidity this summer has been tough, but nothing compared to what our kids go through. Last Saturday, I did my longest training run so far —- 13.1 miles!!! I’m SUPER slow, but I look forward to honoring Andrew and all of our B+ Heroes on Nov. 3rd as I cover 26.2 miles across all 5 boroughs of New York.
I’ve also set an ambitious fundraising goal of $10,000! All of the money that I raise will go toward assisting families of kids with cancer. If you’re able to assist them, any donation would be very much appreciated.
Thank you!!!