Huyen “Kiki” Vo lost her mother in a fire when she was nine years old. In the same fire, 85% of her body was burnt. A nonprofit brought Kiki, her father, and sisters to the United States where Kiki would eventually go through 60 surgeries for her wounds. Kiki’s father worked endlessly to support his five daughters. Last November, Kiki’s father died of lung cancer.
Today, Kiki is 18 years old and the eldest of her sisters. Kiki’s circumstances are unique, but her resilience makes her special. You see, Kiki, despite the devastation and hardships throughout her life, has been admitted into the University of California, Berkeley, one of the best schools in the world. But to attend, Kiki needs to raise enough to cover her tuition. As of today, she is $4,000 short of the $25,000 needed for her first year at Berkeley.
Kiki’s story was brought to our attention by one of our readers, Robyn Dahlgren. Robyn has no direct connection to Kiki, but was deeply moved by Kiki’s story. Robyn connected us to Melody Gutierrez of the Sacramento Bee, who covered Kiki’s story. Like Robyn, Melody was deeply moved by Kiki’s story. Melody’s article has brought on an outpour of support from Sacramento Bee readers. At the time of this writing, Bee readers have rallied to pledge $21,000 to support Kiki’s college dreams.
Kiki is $4,000 short of her goal. As a former Cal Bear, it would be an honor to have Kiki become a fellow Bear next year. A woman with her perseverance is destined for great things with the right education.
Will you make a pledge to help Kiki’s with her education? Any amount of support makes a difference. Please contact me, James Bao, at jhbao@onevietnam.org or (408) 702-2005.
Sources:
Gutierrez, Melody. “Burn victim, accepted into UC, ‘inspires us all.’” Sacramento Bee, 23 April 2010. Web. 2 May 2010.
Gutierrez, Melody. “Bee readers pledge $21,000 to help woman fulfill college dream.” Sacramento Bee, 30 April 2010. Web. 2 May 2010.
brought tears my eyes, thanks for sharing!
The will of a Viet. Huy, eventhough I’m in colorado, still, tell those girls they are welcomed at my home anytime. No empty promises here.
Hi this is her. =)
thanks for the nice comment. I really appreciate it =)
The will of a Viet. Huy, eventhough I’m in colorado, still, tell those girls they are welcomed at my home anytime. No empty promises here.