Support for Cancer Treatment and Care

Niurka Graciela Dalessandro’s Story

Niurka Graciela Dalessandro was born on November 23, 1954, in Caracas, Venezuela, the fifth of six children. In 1980, she came to the United States with a simple dream: to learn English and eventually return home. But God had a different plan for her life. After receiving her green card and later her U.S. citizenship, she built a beautiful life here, one rooted in service, family, and faith.

Niurka dedicated herself to caring for others. She earned a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory technology and worked for 30 years as an MLT. She later served as a translator, and over the years she cross‑trained as an X‑ray technician and nurse, building a remarkable 30‑year career in the medical field. Her compassion, skill, and gentle presence touched countless lives.

Her life blossomed even more when she married the love of her life, Giuseppe Dalessandro, on April 11, 1997. Their greatest blessing arrived soon after: the birth of their only son, Giussepe Francisco Dalessandro.

Shortly after becoming a mother in 2002, Niurka began to feel unwell. That year, she received a heartbreaking diagnosis of her first battle with breast cancer. She fought bravely and overcame it, until the cancer returned after the pandemic. This time, it had spread to her spine, forming a malignant tumor across the L2 and L3 vertebrae. Surgeons were able to remove part of the tumor, but not all of it, because removing it completely would have collapsed her spine.

The cancer later spread to her bones, causing metastasis. Niurka has endured three major treatment journeys, including her current round of chemotherapy. Her second surgery was performed at Emory, where she once again faced the battle with courage, faith, and a quiet strength that inspires everyone around her.

Her long and successful career in the medical field was fulfilling and meaningful, but cancer forced her to stop working. Losing her income has created a heavy financial burden on her family, especially as she continues treatments that leave her body exhausted and in need of rest and recovery.

Throughout her life, Niurka has been the kind of person who shows up for everyone from her siblings, nieces, nephews, grandchildren to her extended family and friends. She has always put the needs of others before her own. She has been a light, a source of hope, and a steady believer in God’s goodness from the beginning.

Now, in this most difficult season, Niurka needs our help.

We are asking for financial support to help her through chemotherapy and the long recovery ahead. Truly any amount will make a difference and will help lift the weight she carries. Your generosity will allow Niurka to focus on healing without fear or worry.

Niurka has always been a beacon of love, positivity, and faith. Today, we have the chance to be that light for her.

Jeremiah 30:17

“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord.”